Heart Disease
If a family history of heart disease is present or lifestyle habits and other factors conducive to heart disease are present, doctors may order a heart disease screening.
Heart disease can be hereditary or can be brought on by excessive plaque in arteries, or blood clots. Heart diseases can be diagnosed by EKG (electrocardiogram), injecting a radioactive isotope into the blood stream to view artery irregularities at both resting and exercising heart rates.
Arteriosclerosis
Arteriosclerosis refers to the arteries. If arteries become hardened, it is difficult for blood to pass through. Arteriosclerosis is sometimes found in patients with hypertension and can be a serious condition.
Myocardial Infarction (Heart Attack)
Commonly known as a heart attack, myocardial infarction refers to the heart’s inability to pump blood due to blockage from damage, disease, blood clots, or plaque buildup.
Risk Factors:
- Hypertension
- Increased Age
- Smoking
- Obesity
- Elevated Cholesterol, Triglycerides and LDL
- Family History
- Diabetes
Heart attack symptoms for women are often different from men, and can be harder to detect.
- Lightheadedness
- Dizziness
- Fainting
- Chest pain
- Nausea
- Vomiting
Hyperlipidemia
Hyperlipidemia is more commonly known as high cholesterol and refers to an excess of cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood. Hyperlipidemia can be a result of family history, excessive weight, or poor diet.
Diet and Exercise
It is important for all women to maintain a healthy diet and exercise plan.
30 minutes of activity per day is recommended that may include: Walking, aerobics, yoga, jogging, swimming, biking and weight training.
Diet is also a key part of a healthy lifestyle. Generally, it is recommended to eat a balanced diet with the majority of the caloric intake from vegetables, fruits, and whole grains.
Dr. McLaughlin and Kristi can help our patients choose diet and healthy lifestyle choices that best fit their needs.
