Discover Important Risk Factors to Know to Help Protect Your Heart
Heart disease isn’t always about sudden chest pain. In fact, its warning signs can be subtle and easy to miss for years. Detecting coronary artery disease early is crucial for preventing serious heart complications. Some people face a higher risk than others, making timely testing an essential step toward protecting their heart health.
Coronary artery disease develops when plaque builds up inside the arteries, narrowing them and reducing blood flow to the heart. Over time, this buildup can lead to blockages that impair heart function. People with traditional risk factors have a greater chance of developing heart disease.
When Should You Be Concerned About Coronary Artery Disease?
If you have risk factors, it’s important to get tested for coronary artery disease earlier than the typical screening age. Your physician will usually recommend testing based on your personal risk profile. For many people, screening may begin sooner and occur more often as risk factors increase or with age. Staying proactive about these tests can help catch problems early and allow for timely treatment to protect your heart health.
Common Risk Factors That Matter for Coronary Artery Disease
1. Age and Gender
Men over 45 and women over 55 have an increased risk for heart disease due to natural changes in the arteries that occur with aging.
2. Lifestyle Choices
The choices you make in everyday life can have a significant impact on your heart health. Risk factors include:
- A diet high in saturated fats, sugar, and salt
- Lack of regular physical activity
- Smoking or tobacco use
- Excess body weight or obesity
3. Family History
If your father or brother was diagnosed before age 55, or your mother or sister before age 65, you are at increased risk for heart disease. Both genetics and shared lifestyle patterns contribute to this elevated risk.
4. Other Medical Conditions
Conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol are major contributors to developing heart disease, however, the proper management of these conditions early can greatly reduce your long-term risk of heart disease.
Prioritize Your Heart Health with Tulsa ER & Hospital
At Tulsa ER & Hospital, we understand how much peace of mind comes from knowing your heart is healthy. Our advanced cardiology services, including the CADScor® System, make it easier than ever to assess your possible risk for coronary artery disease. This quick, non-invasive heart blockage test delivers accurate results in 10 minutes or less, helping make informed decisions about your heart health and cardiac blockage detection without needles or recovery time.
When you need answers right away, our team is available 24/7 to deliver expert evaluation and compassionate care. For prompt, accurate results and exceptional care, visit Tulsa ER & Hospital today.
Disclaimer: As a service to our readers, Tulsa ER & Hospital and Nutex Health state no content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.
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