The number one cause of death among adults in the U.S. is heart disease. A cardiologist can assess your risk for developing heart disease and help you take steps to reduce that risk and improve heart health. Dr. Leith Abdulla, the board-certified cardiologist at our practice serving Rockville and Olney, MD, diagnoses and treats heart disease.

What is Heart Disease?

Heart disease, or cardiovascular disease, actually refers to a broad range of cardiovascular conditions. Coronary artery disease is one of the most common types of heart disease affecting adults in the U.S. The condition is associated with decreased blood flow to the heart, which can lead to a heart attack. Other types of heart disease include arrhythmia, cardiac arrest, congestive heart disease, heart failure, high blood pressure, and stroke.

What are the Signs of Heart Disease?

Many different symptoms can develop when heart disease is present. It is important to see the experienced cardiologist at our office serving Rockville and Olney, MD if you develop any of the warning signs of heart disease. Seeking treatment promptly can prevent the condition from progressing and leading to a heart attack or stroke. Some of the signs of heart disease and cardiovascular problems include:

• Chest pain
• Chest tightness
• Irregular heartbeat
• Dizzy or lightheaded
• Swollen ankles, feet, or legs
• Pain in the jaw, neck, or back
• Nausea, heartburn, or indigestion
• Shortness of breath
• Exhausted easily
• Low energy

What Factors Increase the Risk of Heart Disease?

Several factors can increase a person’s risk of developing some type of heart disease. Certain health conditions, such as diabetes and sleep apnea, are associated with a higher risk for cardiovascular disease. Other risk factors include:

• Family history of heart disease
• Being overweight or obese
• Lack of physical activity
• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol
• Poor diet
• Smoking

What Steps Can I Take to Improve Heart Health?

There are many steps you can take to improve heart health and reduce your risk for heart disease. One important step to take is to see a cardiologist regularly so the doctor can monitor your blood pressure, cholesterol, and overall heart health. The cardiologist can develop a treatment plan to improve cardiovascular health and reduce your risk of developing heart disease. Some steps you can take right now for a healthier heart include:

• Keep blood pressure and cholesterol levels within normal ranges
• Lose excess weight and maintain a healthy body weight
• Engage in moderate physical activity/exercise several days a week
• Maintain a diet that is balanced and healthy and
• Avoid eating processed foods
• Limit sugar and sodium intake
• Limit alcohol consumption
• Avoid or stop smoking

See a cardiologist if you are experiencing symptoms associated with heart diseases, such as chest pain or an irregular heartbeat. Prompt treatment can help prevent heart attacks and other serious cardiovascular problems. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Abdulla, the skilled cardiologist at our Rockville and Olney, MD, cardiology practice, call the office today. Call his office in Olney, MD, at (301) 774-5260, or at his office in Rockville, MD, at (301) 881-5858 to make an appointment.