(WTOL) - Want to learn more about heart disease? - Ronak Patel, MD, a cardiologist with ProMedica Physicians Group, stopped by WTOL 11 Monday to answer all your questions.
Dr. Patel talked about risk factors for heart disease, the signs and symptoms of a heart attack and what you can do to lower your risk of a heart attack. Watch the full web chat in the video player above.
Many people can significantly reduce the risk of heart disease by knowing the risk factors and reducing those that are preventable. These factors increase your risk of a heart attack:
- Smoking
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure
- Being overweight
- Bad cholesterol
- Lack of physical activity
- High stress levels
- Family history
The sooner you take steps toward a healthier heart, the stronger chance you have of reducing your risk for a heart attack. In fact, the American Heart Association recommends that heart attack prevention begin by age 20. Your best defense is working with your physician to come up with a personalized plan and choosing a healthy lifestyle that minimizes risks.
Knowing your heart stats is one of your most powerful prevention tools. Here's a handy reference guide:
Remember: Your health goals may be different depending on your current health. Talk with your doctor about what's right for you.
Read more about heart health here.
