If you have a family history of heart disease, it is normal to be concerned. As we age, the heart muscle can weaken in a variety of ways. To best prepare you and your family, consider implementing a healthy diet, various forms of exercise, and less stress in your life. By implementing these practices, a person’s cardiovascular system can be improved.
A cardiac MRI is used for evaluating heart disease risk in patients. It allows doctors to evaluate the function and structure of the heart and major blood vessels without the risk of radiation exposure that is necessary for other tests. A cardiac MRI may be used to test higher-risk patients.
What to Know About Heart Disease
If you have spoken with relatives about their medical history involving heart disease or you have lost loved ones due to cardiovascular events, it is important to learn all you can about heart disease and implement healthy choices for you and your family. Having a family history of heart disease makes it more likely that you will develop heart disease yourself. Each family is different in that some may be diagnosed with heart disease much earlier than others.
Heart disease refers to a variety of heart issues such as coronary artery disease, cardiomyopathy, and other heart-related conditions. Since heart disease is hereditary in some cases, you and your family should be aware of the many ways to prevent the condition. It is important to recognize the warning signs, maintain a healthy diet, avoid stress, and refrain from smoking.
Heart-Related Conditions
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 700,000 people die from heart disease as well as numerous heart-related conditions.
In addition to heart disease, which can sometimes be used as an umbrella term to define other heart issues, the following conditions can affect the heart:
- Coronary artery disease
- Cardiomyopathy
- Atrial fibrillation
- Diabetes
- Heart valve disease
- High blood pressure
- Stroke
- High blood cholesterol
- Arrhythmias
- Chest pain
- Congenital heart disease
- Heart attacks
These, along with other heart-related conditions, can seriously negatively impact an individual’s health. The structure of the heart can be weakened due to medical conditions such as Ehlers-Danlos syndrome or Marfan syndrome. Both conditions weaken the body’s connective tissues, including blood vessels.
In addition to heart disease, the above diagnoses can worsen conditions. To remain as healthy as you can, consider taking action sooner rather than later. Those who take action quickly may have more treatment options compared to those who wait to receive treatment.
Steps to Take
If you have a family history of heart disease, there are several actions you should consider taking. Not only should you understand more about the health condition, but your entire family should be aware as well.
Those with a family history of cardiovascular issues should take precautions to decrease the risk of developing heart-related conditions, including heart disease.
Some of the precautions to take include the following:
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- Select healthy food options.
- Take part in physical activity.
- Refrain from drinking too much alcohol.
- Refrain from smoking.
- Stay informed about heart disease.
- Attend regular doctor appointments and check-ups.
- Keep your blood pressure and cholesterol levels in check.
- Provide your primary doctor with your family history of heart disease or cardiovascular symptoms.
- Find a cardiologist.
Those who follow the above precautions can reduce the risk of heart disease.
Find Treatment Today
At the United Heart Institute, our professionals are accustomed to assisting those struggling with heart-related conditions. Our experts tailor treatment to the type of heart problem you suffer from. Once you meet with one of our doctors, they can determine the best course of action in treating the heart condition.
Consider scheduling a consultation at our heart health clinic. Our doctors can provide helpful information for you and your family regarding heart disease and related health concerns. Contact us today to learn more.
