Am I At Risk for a Cardiac Event?

A cardiac event can be a life-changing health problem. While these heart issues can happen to anyone, certain people are more likely to be at risk. Knowing your personal risk factors can help you take charge of your heart health. In this article, we’ll explain what a cardiac event is, who is at risk, and what all patients need to know.

What is a Cardiac Event?

A cardiac event is simply an issue that causes heart damage. Usually, the heart malfunctions and temporarily and blood flow is interrupted. Many different things can cause cardiac events, including heart valve disease, coronary artery disease, and even certain types of cancer.

Is It The Same Thing As a Heart Attack?

Many people think that cardiac events and heart attacks are the same. While they do have a lot in common, these are two different conditions. A heart attack is when there is a block in a person’s coronary artery. This cuts off the supply of oxygen to the heart. A cardiac event is a more general term used to describe a heart malfunction. Simply put, a heart attack is a cardiac event, but not all cardiac events are heart attacks.

Cardiac Event Risk Factors

Are you at risk for a cardiac event? Certain risk factors are out of your control, such as age, gender, and family history. Other risk factors are due to your lifestyle. Smoking, obesity, heavy drinking, and a lack of physical activity can all increase your risk of heart events.

Staying Heart-Healthy

Living a generally healthy lifestyle is one of the best things you can do for your heart. Eat well, manage your stress, and also keep your weight under control. But remember- you don’t have to do it alone! Your cardiologist can help you create a wellness plan designed to keep your heart as healthy as possible.

Talk to Your Cardiologist

Cardiologists can help all types of patients maintain good heart health. But if you are at risk for a cardiac event, then it’s especially important to see a heart specialist. At Northwest Cardiovascular, we can assess your current health and also help you make plans for the future. To learn more, call our office today.