Cardiovascular Health

Why is cardiovascular health so important?

Cardiovascular health is important because your heart is responsible for some of your most critical bodily functions. It pumps nutrient-rich blood to your brain and internal organs, supplies the oxygen needed to survive, and even removes toxins and waste from your body.

As you age, you’re more likely to develop heart-related health problems, like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and peripheral arterial disease (PAD). 

Who is at risk of cardiovascular health problems?

Cardiovascular health problems affect people of all ages, genders, and races, but several factors increase your risk, including:

• Family history of heart disease
• Lack of exercise
• Poor diet
• Excess weight or obesity
• Smoking
• Drinking alcohol excessively
• Misusing prescription or recreational drugs
• Chronic inflammatory and autoimmune conditions

Diabetes and gestational diabetes increases your risk of cardiovascular health problems. 

How are cardiovascular health problems diagnosed?

Your Xpress Med Urgent Care provider reviews your medical records and asks questions about your symptoms, personal health, and family history. They also order several tests to gain insights into your heart and its function, including:

Blood work

Blood work analyzes a sample of your blood. It checks for indicators of heart disease, like high cholesterol, abnormal blood sugar, and elevated levels of certain proteins. Your provider also assesses your blood’s ability to clot. 

Electrocardiogram

An electrocardiogram is a painless, noninvasive test that uses electrodes to measure your heart’s electrical activity. Your Xpress Med Urgent Care provider might order an electrocardiogram to check for an abnormal heartbeat or blocked or narrow arteries.

Stress tests

A stress test analyzes how strenuous activities like exercise affect your heartbeat and heart function. Often, the team orders stress tests alongside other screening procedures, like an electrocardiogram or a heart ultrasound. 

How are cardiovascular health problems treated?

The Xpress Med Urgent Care team treats cardiovascular health problems using a conservative and patient-centered approach. They might suggest:

• Changing your diet
• Exercising regularly
• Quitting smoking and alcohol use
• Prescription medications to help manage your disease
• Routine monitoring

If your symptoms continue or worsen, you might be a candidate for a medical device, like a stent, or surgery. A stent is a small, metallic tube that holds an artery open to encourage blood flow. There are several types of heart surgery, including open heart surgery, ablations, and minimally invasive heart surgery.

Call Xpress Med Urgent Care today to schedule a cardiovascular health consultation, or book your appointment online.