Heart disease kills roughly 659,000 adults each year, making it the leading cause of death in the U.S. With such staggering statistics, it's important to work with a cardiologist to prioritize heart health, especially for individuals with certain risk factors. Here's a closer look at some of the top circumstances when it's time to reach out to a professional. 

How to Tell It's Time to Visit a Cardiologist

1. Persistent High Blood Pressure

Normal blood pressure ranges are at or below 120/80 mmHg. Exceeding this in certain circumstances can be expected, like in a stressful situation or when trying a new medication for the first time. However, when readings consistently show 130/80 mmHG or above, it's considered hypertension, or high blood pressure. 

Impacting 116 million people in the U.S., this problem increases the risk of both heart disease and stroke. A cardiologist can help keep the issue from worsening by prescribing medication and offering advice on lifestyle changes that can help improve blood pressure levels. 

2. Family History of Heart Disease

Whether genetic or lifestyle based, some families are more prone to heart disease. Any instances of immediate family—father, mother, or siblings—experiencing early heart attack, arrhythmias, heart failure, or other similar issues may indicate a higher risk. 

Visiting a specialist sooner rather than later can help determine potential factors that need to be changed and identify symptoms early before they cause significant issues or damage. 

3. Inactivity Prior to Starting a Workout Routine

Regular physical activity can have huge benefits for a person's health, including their heart. However, hitting the gym with an undiagnosed and untreated heart issue can end up resulting in serious health complications. Those who have been inactive recently may not notice the signs of such issues, so it's important to visit a cardiologist and get cleared before incorporating strenuous exercise into a daily routine.

Find quality, dependable support for your health needs at Nathan Littauer Hospital & Nursing Home in Gloversville, NY. The full-service facility offers a wide range of comprehensive services, including a dedicated team of cardiologists, pediatricians, and neurologists. Find out how they can assist you on your health journey online, and book an appointment today at (518) 725-8621.