1. What are common symptoms of heart disease?
Common symptoms include chest pain, shortness of breath, palpitations, dizziness, and fatigue.
2. What is an angiogram?
An angiogram is an imaging test that uses X-rays to take pictures of your blood vessels.
3. Is an angiogram painful?
An angiogram is generally not painful, though you may feel brief discomfort when the local anesthetic is injected and pressure during catheter insertion. Some experience a warm sensation when the contrast dye is injected. Post-procedure, mild soreness at the insertion site is common.
4. What is arrhythmia?
An arrhythmia is an irregular heartbeat. The heart may beat too fast, too slow, or with an irregular rhythm.
5. What is a pacemaker?
A pacemaker is a small device that’s placed in the chest or abdomen to help control abnormal heart rhythms.
6. What is coronary artery disease (CAD)?
CAD is the most common type of heart disease and occurs when the arteries that supply blood to the heart muscle become hardened and narrowed due to plaque buildup.
7. What is the difference between angina and a heart attack?
Angina is chest pain or discomfort due to reduced blood flow to the heart muscle, while a heart attack is when blood flow is completely blocked.
8. What treatments are available for heart disease?
Treatments include lifestyle changes, medications, procedures like angioplasty or surgery, and management of underlying conditions.
9. How does smoking affect heart health?
Smoking damages the lining of your arteries, leads to the buildup of fatty material (atheroma) which narrows the artery, and increases the risk of heart disease.
10. How often should you visit a cardiologist?
How often you should visit a cardiologist depends on your individual health needs and risk factors. Generally, those with heart disease or risk factors should see a cardiologist annually or as recommended. If you have no significant risk factors or symptoms, routine visits every few years may suffice. Always follow your primary care physician’s advice on cardiology visits.
11. What are the signs of a stroke?
Signs of a stroke include sudden numbness or weakness, especially on one side of the body, confusion, trouble speaking, vision problems, difficulty walking, dizziness, and severe headache.
12. How often should I have a heart check-up?
The frequency of heart check-ups depends on your age, risk factors, and overall health. It’s best to follow your cardiologist’s recommendations.