February is American Heart Month, which is wonderful for me as a cardiologist who specializes in prevention of cardiovascular disease. This month provides the opportunity to help raise awareness about heart disease and how people can prevent it. Below, I share some of the questions and topics that come up frequently when I talk with my patients about living heart-healthy lives.
1. What is my goal for “total cholesterol”?
I give my patients a sheet with their cholesterol numbers and goals (or targets) for each value. There are separate goals for LDL (“bad”) cholesterol, HDL (“good”) cholesterol, and triglycerides, but none for “total cholesterol.” Why is that? A single, total cholesterol number takes into account the levels of LDL, HDL, and triglycerides in your blood. However, the individual values of these substances are more important than the total number. Additionally, a high total number may be misleading, especially when the HDL (the “good” cholesterol) is high.
2. What is meant by a “family history?”
Many patients report that other family members have had a heart attack or stroke. However, when it comes to evaluating a patient’s risk for cardiovascular disease, we focus on a more specific definition of family history: when a first-degree relative (biological parent or sibling) has premature, or early, heart disease. For men, this would be younger than 55 years of age, and for women, younger than 65 years of age.
3. Why are there two numbers to my blood pressure?
I also make sure to write down my patients’ blood pressure and give it to them. A blood pressure reading consists of two numbers. The top number, called “systolic,” measures the pressure in the arteries (the blood vessels taking blood from the heart to the rest of your body) when the heart contracts, or beats. The bottom number, called the “diastolic,” measures the pressure in the arteries between heartbeats, when the heart muscle is relaxing between beats and refilling with blood. Both numbers are important and should be kept under control.
4. How can I best prevent heart disease?
When talking with my patients, I also highlight that prevention of cardiovascular disease is a lifetime endeavor. Atherosclerosis, or “plaque” buildup (also called hardening of the arteries), a condition that can lead to heart attack or stroke, starts during childhood. Establishing good habits (including a heart-healthy diet, exercise, and physical activity), knowing your numbers (blood pressure, blood sugar, body weight, cholesterol), and not smoking should always be on your personal—and family agenda.
To find an excellent doctor who is right for you, please call our Physician Referral Service at 866.804.1007.