Heart Disease: Symptoms, Risk Factors, and Prevention

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States for men and women and all ethnic groups. If you have heart disease in Southfield, MI, you can rely on Dr. Antoine Geffrard of RMS Consultations to provide the care you need to keep your heart healthy.

With how common heart disease is, you might imagine that everyone knows what the symptoms of heart disease are, but unfortunately, that is not the case.

Symptoms of Heart Disease

Heart disease is not just one condition, so there are a variety of things that may be indicative of heart disease. The most common is coronary artery disease. This causes a decrease in the blood flow to the heart and can result in a heart attack. 

If you have the feeling that you are drowning, it may be the result of congestive heart failure. Pain in your chest or running down your arm can be a symptom of a heart attack. 

If you are feeling your heart fluttering or palpitating, it can be atrial fibrillation. Swelling in the feet, ankles, or legs may also indicate poor circulation due to congestive heart failure. 

Risk Factors for Heart Disease

A family history of heart disease can put you more at risk than the average person. Knowing your family history is essential so that you can take the necessary steps to manage your health. 

Some conditions also increase your risk of developing heart disease. If you have high blood pressure and high cholesterol, or you are a smoker, your risk is higher than average.  

Other medical conditions and lifestyle choices can significantly increase the risk of developing heart disease:

  • If you are overweight or obese.
  • If you have diabetes.
  • If you are eating an unhealthy diet.
  • If you are a coach potato.

You have some control over these and owe it to your heart to make those changes.

Prevention Heart Disease

Some of the things that you can do to prevent heart disease in Southfield, MI, are to maintain a healthy weight. Get out there and exercise, and of course, talk to your doctor before starting an exercise program. 

Eating a heart-healthy diet is a good step toward heart disease prevention. It also helps to control blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes. 

Most importantly, get regular medical check-ups to ensure your heart is healthy. Working with your cardiologist can make all the difference to your continued heart health.  

Contact Us Today

Dr. Geffrard of RMS Consultations treats heart disease in Southfield, MI. If you have symptoms or risk factors for heart disease, call our office at (248) 663-5353 to make an appointment today.

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Monday - Friday:

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Saturday, Sunday:

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Monday, Tuesday:

10:00 am - 4:15 pm

Wednesday, Saturday, Sunday:

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Thursday, Friday:

1:00 pm - 4:15 pm