5 Ways To Detect Heart Disease Early According To The Centers For Disease Control And Prevention (CDC)

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), identifying the signs and symptoms of heart disease can be crucial in preventing its progression. Here are five ways to detect heart disease early:

• Get checked by your doctor**: If you have a family history of heart disease or if you experience any of the following symptoms, schedule an appointment with your doctor immediately:

• Chest pain or discomfort that lasts more than a few minutes

• Shortness of breath while exercising or engaging in daily activities

• Close monitoring**: Regular check-ups with your doctor can help identify the early signs of heart disease. Ask about regular check-ups to ensure you're at a healthy weight, exercise regularly, and manage any risk factors such as high blood pressure or diabetes.

• Get a lipid profile test: A lipid profile test checks for elevated levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, which can increase the risk of heart disease. If your results are abnormal, discuss further testing with your doctor.

• Be aware of lifestyle changes**: Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is crucial in preventing heart disease. Discuss ways to make healthier choices with your doctor, such as:

• Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains

• Exercising regularly, including brisk walking, running, or other activities that bring you joy

• Closely monitor your blood pressure**: High blood pressure is a major risk factor for heart disease. Discuss ways to manage hypertension with your doctor, such as:

• Regularly checking your blood pressure at home

• Taking medication or making lifestyle changes to lower your blood pressure.

• Know the symptoms of atrial fibrillation**: Atrial fibrillation is a common heart condition that can lead to heart disease. Familiarize yourself with its symptoms, such as:

• Irregular heartbeat or palpitations

• Shortness of breath while exercising or engaging in daily activities.

• Get tested for biomarkers**: Biomarkers are substances produced by the body that can indicate heart disease. Discuss testing options with your doctor, such as:

• Echocardiogram: An echocardiogram uses sound waves to create images of the heart and detect any abnormalities.

• Closely follow your treatment plan**: After being diagnosed with heart disease, it's essential to closely follow a treatment plan. Discuss ways to manage symptoms and prevent complications with your doctor.