Navigating Heart Health: 5 Questions to Ask Your Provider
For many, heart health is a major concern. This is especially true for those with a family or personal history of heart issues, such as coronary artery disease, heart attacks, heart failure, arrhythmias or high blood pressure. Fortunately, open and honest conversations with your primary care provider can help address your worries.
Here are some essential questions to ask your provider if you have a history of heart issues or concerns about your heart health.
1. What is my current risk for heart disease?
Understanding your individual risk factors for heart disease, such as family history, lifestyle habits, and medical conditions, is essential for developing a personalized prevention plan.
2. What tests or screenings do I need?
Your provider can recommend specific tests or screenings based on your risk factors and medical history. These may include blood tests, electrocardiograms (ECG or EKG), stress tests, or imaging studies like echocardiograms or cardiac CT scans.
3. What lifestyle changes can I make to improve my heart health?
Lifestyle modifications, such as adopting a heart-healthy diet, engaging in regular exercise, quitting smoking, and managing stress, can significantly reduce your risk of heart disease. Your provider can offer guidance and support.
4. What symptoms should I watch for?
Knowing the signs and symptoms of heart problems, such as chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, or palpitations, can help you recognize when to seek medical attention.
5. How often should I follow up with you?
Regular follow-up appointments are essential for monitoring your heart health, adjusting treatment plans as needed, and addressing any new concerns or symptoms that may arise. Work with your provider to establish a follow-up schedule that is best for you.
Need a primary care provider?
Open communication with your primary care provider is key to effectively managing your heart health. If you don’t have one, now is a great time to change that. We offer primary care in Duluth, Hermantown, Mountain Iron, Hibbing, Two Harbors, Silver Bay, Superior and Ashland, and have great access!
To establish care at St. Luke’s, call 218.249.4000 or request an appointment online at slhduluth.com/PrimaryCare.