If there’s a family history of heart disease or a physician has mentioned that you’re at risk of developing a condition, visiting a heart doctor will help monitor and maintain your health. It is useful to prepare a list of questions to ask when you go. As you consider your thoughts and concerns, below are some common inquiries patients ask.

What to Discuss With Your Heart Doctor

1. Is My Blood Pressure Healthy?

High blood pressure is a cause of ischemic heart disease, which means not enough blood is flowing to the heart. The ideal figure is 120/80 or lower, although the top number or systolic blood pressure is typically a stronger predictor of heart attack risk. Ask the doctor how to lower or maintain the right figure, especially if you have other risk factors.

2. What Is My Ideal Weight & Waist Circumference?

A higher BMI, particularly if it’s over 30, is associated with heart disease. Your risk increases when accompanied by a large waist circumference in proportion to your body. Ask what your ideal weight and waist circumference is for heart health. A waist greater than 35 inches for women and 40 for men is often associated with coronary heart disease, but everyone’s body is unique, and your ideal number may be different.   

3. Does My Family History Influence Heart Health?

A family history of heart conditions can be a strong predictor of your risk, whether it’s because of shared environmental factors or genetics. Share this information with the heart doctor and discuss how it affects your well-being, as well as the steps you can take to stay healthy.

The heart doctors at DiVagno Interventional Cardiology, MD, PA, in Rochelle Park, NJ, specialize in interventional cardiology and cardiovascular disease and have experience in the latest treatment techniques. Call (201) 845-3535 to schedule an appointment, or visit them online to learn more about the comprehensive services they provide, from EKG to cardiac CT and MRI.