Cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) is a specialized type of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). For individuals who smoke, these tests can detect heart changes. Smoking can lead to elevated left and right ventricular mass, increased amounts of myocardial fibrosis, and decreased left and right ventricular function.
Individuals who smoke may experience cardiovascular issues. To prevent heart problems, it is advised that individuals should avoid smoking. Previous or current smokers may develop poor heart health. Thankfully, cardiac MRI imaging can provide answers to those experiencing cardiovascular problems.
Information Provided by a Cardiac MRI
When an individual undergoes a cardiac MRI, the imaging provides detailed information about the cardiovascular system. Whether a health issue is only now being discovered or the imaging is used to determine the severity of a current health problem, the information from an MRI can help many patients find answers.
Those who exhibit signs or symptoms of heart health or cardiovascular issues should seek help right away. To determine the cause of heart-related symptoms, a cardiac MRI may be necessary, as it provides extensive information that doctors can use to better care for patients and offer multiple treatment options.
Risk Factors for Developing Cardiovascular Disease
According to the National Library of Medicine, smoking and physical inactivity are the two primary risk factors for developing cardiovascular disease. Smoking is dangerous for the heart and can increase the risk of disease. Smoking can also increase the risk of heart failure, stroke, or myocardial infarction, resulting in poor heart health.
In addition to cardiovascular disease, smoking can lead to multiple health concerns that can affect the entire body. For instance, smoking can cause health-related issues such as:
- Difficulty breathing
- Heart attack
- Gum disease
- Cancer
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- Bronchitis
- Pneumonia
- Damaged blood vessels
- Type II diabetes
- Myocardial scarring
- Damage to ventricular structures and functions
The above can all be caused by smoking. However, smoking is not the only risk factor when it comes to cardiovascular disease. In fact, there is a wide range of risk factors associated with the development of cardiovascular disease, including:
- Stress
- High alcohol intake
- Poor sleep
- Substance abuse
- High cholesterol
- An unhealthy diet containing high sugar and salts
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure
- Obesity
- Living a sedentary lifestyle
- Lack of healthy nutrition
- Hyperglycemia
In addition to smoking, these risk factors are associated with poor cardiovascular health.
What a Cardiac MRI Offers
A cardiac MRI provides doctors with information necessary to help you with your heart condition. A cardiac MRI is noninvasive, yet offers detailed imaging of the heart’s internal structure. Instead of radiation, the MRI uses radio waves and magnetic waves. A cardiac MRI can screen for numerous health concerns, including:
- Blocked blood vessels
- Heart tumors or masses
- Infections
- Heart valve problems
- Congenital heart defects
- Blood flow
- Scarring
- Tissue composition
- Heart chamber function and size
- Heart muscle damage
- Heart defects
- Evaluating pumping efficiency
- Heart failure
Thankfully, a cardiac MRI can prevent potential heart issues by informing patients of the severity of their condition. The information the MRI provides helps doctors recognize the more serious dangers to heart health and other issues.
Receive Treatment Today
If you are a former or current smoker, consider a check-up with your heart doctor, who can perform tests to rule out specific conditions or identify potential diagnoses. If you experience any cardiovascular symptoms, notify your doctor immediately.
At United Heart Institute, we take pride in offering a wide range of services to our patients. Our heart health clinic focuses on the detection and diagnosis of heart conditions. Contact us today to learn more about our in-house MRI facility.
