Heart Disease Q & A
What is heart disease?
Heart disease, also called cardiovascular disease, includes health problems that contribute to atherosclerosis and increase your risk of heart attack, chest pain, or stroke. Atherosclerosis is a condition in which fatty deposits build up on the insides of your blood vessels, reducing the space available for your blood to flow. This forces your heart to work harder to move your blood and increases your risk of severe cardiovascular events.
What are the signs of heart disease?
You might not experience any warning signs of heart disease. Many patients only discover they have a heart problem when they have a heart attack or stroke. However, heart disease can cause symptoms including:
- Chest pain or tightness
- Shortness of breath
- Irregular heartbeat
- Lightheadedness or dizziness
- Fainting
- Fatigue
If you notice any of these symptoms, make an appointment with Dr. Farooqui. If you have severe chest pain combined with shortness of breath, go directly to your nearest emergency room.
What causes heart disease?
Your genetics contribute to your risk of heart disease. However, your lifestyle also contributes to your risk. For example, if you eat a high-fat, high-salt diet, don’t get much exercise, and are overweight, you increase your risk of heart disease as well as many other potentially dangerous health problems.
Additionally, smoking, overuse of alcohol, and stress also contribute to your chances of developing heart disease.
How is heart disease diagnosed?
At New Tampa Internal Medicine Associates, Dr. Farooqui offers comprehensive cardiovascular health screening services, including Heartwise head-to-toe health assessments. When you have the 26 in-office Heartwise tests, your results are analyzed by the Heartwise software. The software generates a risk analysis report.
How is heart disease treated?
Depending on your needs — for example, if you have an elevated risk of heart disease or have already had a heart attack or other cardiac event — Dr. Farooqui creates a customized wellness plan to improve your health and reduce your risk.
Your program is tailored to meet your needs, and may include:
- Dietary improvements
- Physical activity
- Medication
- Angioplasty
If you’re concerned about heart disease or want a customized assessment of your risk complete with advice to improve your health, call New Tampa Internal Medicine Associates or schedule a consultation online today.
