I'm at Risk for Heart Disease — What Should I Do?

According to the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC), three things significantly increase your risk for heart disease: high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and smoking. On top of that, a family history of heart problems can mean that you have a higher-than-average risk for issues of your own. 

If any of these things apply to you, you should take steps to protect your heart health. Because David Bolon, MD, specializes in heart attack prevention, he can come alongside you and help. Here at Manhattan Integrative Cardiovascular in Midtown East Manhattan, New York City, Dr. Bolon and our team offer tools you can use — like cardiac screenings — paired with lifestyle guidance. 

Dr. Bolon tailors your heart health plan to you. That said, he generally recommends the following for people with a heightened risk of heart disease. 

#1: Don’t smoke

Smoking causes one in four deaths from cardiovascular disease. If you’re currently a smoker, the best thing you can do to protect your heart is quit.

Obviously, that’s easier said than done. The CDC and the American Lung Association both have resources to help. Looping in Dr. Bolon and getting support from friends and family goes a long way toward helping you kick this habit that kills, too. 

Smoking doesn’t do your heart any favors, but the act of smoking isn't the only issue. Tobacco contains chemicals that can damage your heart. So don’t chew, vape, or consume tobacco in any other way, either. 

#2: Eat a healthy diet

Food can either support your heart health or hurt it. To help your heart, eat lots of:

• Fruits
• Vegetables
• Legumes (including beans)
• Whole grains
• Healthy fats

Avoid:

• Excess sodium
• Trans fats
• Saturated fats
• Excess sugars
• Refined carbs
• Excess alcohol

In general, try to steer clear of highly processed foods and instead fill your plate with whole foods. For help here, you can use this heart-healthy shopping list from the US Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion. 

#3: Get moving

Regular exercise helps maintain healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels, addressing two of the top three heart disease risk factors identified by the CDC. 

Aim to get about two and a half hours of moderate-intensity physical activity each week. 

#4: Get screened regularly

If you know you have a heightened risk of heart disease, regular cardiac screenings help you stay informed about the current state of your heart — and when you need to take extra measures to keep it functioning at its best. 

You should check your cholesterol and blood pressure regularly, and you might benefit from additional screening, like an echocardiogram. Dr. Bolon can help you get on the right screening schedule based on your risk level. 

For help supporting your heart health when you’re at risk for heart disease, call our team at (716) 303-4738 or book your appointment online today.