What heart health includes
Heart health involves the heart muscle, valves, electrical rhythm, and the blood vessels that supply the heart, brain, kidneys, limbs, and other organs. Cardiovascular risk is shaped by blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes, tobacco exposure, activity, sleep, family history, age, and other factors.
Common conditions
Coronary artery disease, heart attack, heart failure, arrhythmias, valve disease, stroke, and peripheral artery disease.
Common tests
Blood pressure, lipid panel, glucose tests, electrocardiogram, imaging, stress testing, and other tests chosen for the situation.
Emergency warning signs
Call 911 for possible heart attack or stroke
Do not drive yourself if you have severe chest pressure, severe shortness of breath, collapse, or stroke signs such as facial droop, arm weakness, or speech trouble.
Risk reduction
Work with a healthcare professional to understand your overall risk rather than focusing on one number. Helpful actions may include avoiding tobacco, taking prescribed medicines, being physically active, improving food patterns, managing blood pressure and glucose, sleeping adequately, and addressing stress and social support.
Questions to ask
- What is my estimated cardiovascular risk?
- Which numbers matter most for me?
- Do I need medication, lifestyle changes, or both?
- What symptoms should make me call 911?
- How often should I repeat tests or follow up?