The Importance of a General Cardiology Check Up

The early stages of coronary artery disease often reveal no signs or symptoms.  The disease develops gradually and often at a slow pace, resulting in long periods of time with little to no noticeable symptoms.  As a result, it may not be until a routine cardiology check up takes place that your Phoenix cardiologist finds out that you have early onset or full-blown heart disease.

A general Phoenix cardiology check up consists of blood tests and cholesterol checks.  Your blood pressure will be taken to determine if it is normal or high.  This is why it is extremely important to have routine and regular check ups. 

What to do Before Your Check Up

If you are experiencing symptoms, it is important to write them down and bring them with you to your appointment.  The symptoms may or may not relate to coronary artery disease, but you should reveal all abnormalities to your cardiologist in AZ so that it can be determined if they relate or not.

It is also important to write down any medical history and medications that you may be taken so that your doctor can keep a record of this.  Any family history of heart disease should be reported and documented.

If there are particular restrictions, such as fasting, that should be done prior to your check up, it is important that those directions be followed.  Cholesterol tests, for example, require fasting for a particular period of time prior to the diagnostic procedure.

If a family member or friend can accompany you to the appointment, it is generally recommended that they do so.  The individual can help you to remember what the doctor says and even assist you in writing down useful information.

If you have any questions prior to your visit, be sure to write those down and ask your doctor.  Questions regarding testing, medical restrictions and what signs constitute an emergency are often asked at the initial cardiology check up.

Prevention is Key

As a person ages and risk factors increase, general cardiology check ups are recommended.  Prevention is key to living a long and healthy life.  Since coronary heart disease develops gradually, routine check ups can help prevent the disease from progressing.

If you are experiencing signs related to heart disease, report these symptoms to your cardiologist right away.  Do not wait for the symptoms to subside.  Reduce the likelihood of stroke by visiting your cardiologist for a routine check up.

AZ Heart Doctor is the premiercardiologist Mesa AZ trusts and serves the entire East Valley and Phoenix.