Heart health starts with preventative care, so cardiac screenings should be part of your annual checkups. This is especially true if you have a family history of heart conditions or if you’re at a higher risk for heart disease. By learning about heart health and heart disease risk factors, you can adjust your lifestyle to prioritize wellness. The following tests are just some of the components that you can expect during your cardiac screening. 

Due For a Cardiac Screening? Here’s What to Expect

1. General Health Questions

At the beginning of the appointment, the doctor will ask you a series of questions about your overall health. You will discuss your health history and lifestyle that might include risk factors for heart disease. This will include smoking and an unhealthy diet. The doctor will also ask you about your family medical history. A family history of heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and similar issues can put you at higher risk for cardiac conditions and heart attacks. 

2. Blood Pressure Test

The doctor will check your blood pressure, which is a standard part of any primary care appointment. If you show elevated or high blood pressure, the doctor will discuss ways to get your levels in check. This can include lifestyle changes or medication. High blood pressure, or hypertension stage one, ranges from 130-139 systolic and 90 or higher diastolic. 

3. Cholesterol Screening

Cholesterol is a waxy substance that accumulates in your blood, and healthy levels are 200 mg/dL or lower. Your doctor will test your levels with a blood test, so it could take a few days to receive the results. As they do for patients with high blood pressure, doctors may recommend medication or lifestyle changes for patients with high cholesterol. 

4. Electrocardiogram

This test measures your heart rhythm, and the doctor will look for any cardiac issues based on the results. An electrocardiogram (EKG) can show an irregular heartbeat, reduced blood and oxygen flow to the heart, past heart attacks, and other abnormalities. Your doctor may want to complete additional tests based on these results, collecting information for diagnosis and treatment. 

When it comes to heart health, Northern KY Emergency Medical Services Inc. is committed to educating individuals in the Greater Cincinnati area. This non-profit organization is certified by the American Heart Association and American Safety and Health Institute. They offer CPR, AED, OSHA, and health training, as well as cardiac screenings and first-aid certifications. To view a full list of their services visit them online. You can also learn more about scheduling trainings for your organization by calling (859) 572-4511.