Yes, Seeing a Cardiologist is Necessary and Here’s Why
Posted by: Men's Health Boston in Uncategorized on October 25, 2021
Have you always wondered if you should see a cardiologist or have you received a referral from your primary care physician? Having a healthy heart and blood vessels is a necessary component for keeping the rest of your body in good shape.
If your doctor has referred you, the chances are that they may have spotted something that needs a closer look or monitoring to ensure timely treatment. What are some of these reasons that you may need to consult with a cardiologist? Keep reading to learn more.
Your Family History
Do you have a close relative like your mother, father, grandmother, grandfather, or sibling with high blood pressure or cholesterol? Have they also had a heart attack, heart valve problems, heart rhythm disorder, stroke or blood vessel disorder?
Have you experienced any of these issues yourself? These are grave concerns and should be addressed and monitored by your cardiologist.
You Have Gum Disease
There is a link between heart health and gum disease. Bacteria in your mouth can travel through your body and cause infection in your heart valves and inflammation in your heart vessels.
By getting regular dental cleanings and treatment for your gum disease, you can help keep your heart healthy. Also, get regular checkups to monitor the health of your heart.
You’re a Smoker
Smoking increases your risk of developing many conditions. Whether you currently smoke or have a history of doing so, you should schedule regular appointments with your cardiologist. Seeing a cardiologist regularly can help diagnose any problems early on, leading to prompt treatment.
You Have Diabetes
Diabetes dramatically increases your risk for heart disease. Diabetes is a serious condition that weakens your immune system. Left untreated, high blood sugar levels caused by diabetes can lead to infections and an increased risk for heart problems.
Even if you have your diabetes under control, you should still see a cardiologist as a way to monitor any health risks.
You Have Erectile Dysfunction (ED)
Erectile dysfunction (ED) — the inability to get and keep an erection firm enough for sex — can be an early warning sign of current or future heart problems. Likewise, if you have heart disease, getting the right treatment might help with erectile dysfunction. Understand the connection and what you can do about it by discussing this with a cardiologist.
You Have Cancer
Having cancer doesn’t always directly affect your heart, but some cancer treatments can. These aggressive measures designed to attack and destroy cancer in your body can lead to damage to your heart muscles and blood vessels.
Whether you’re a cancer patient or survivor, be sure to see your cardiologist regularly. Regular visits will help keep your heart healthy and monitor for any other internal damage.
You Had Congenital Heart Disease
Did you have congenital heart disease when you were a child? A congenital heart defect is one of the most common types of congenital issues.
These heart defects develop before birth and include having a hole in the heart, a leaky valve, or defective vessels. Infants are monitored and treated for these conditions.
In many cases, they grow up without other health issues associated with the heart. But, as an adult, you should have your heart regularly checked by a cardiologist.
You’re Starting a New Exercise Routine
Are you joining a gym or taking up a new sport, or want to lose weight by trying a new diet program? If you’re taking part in an activity that could potentially impact your heart, then it’s best to get a physical first.
This should include tests for high blood pressure and high cholesterol. You also have a series of cardiovascular tests run to see how healthy your heart is. By regularly scheduling appointments with your cardiologist, you can help keep your heart and body healthy. Schedule an appointment with one of the doctors at Men’s Health Boston today to make your heart a priority!
