What are the Signs of a Heart Condition?

Having a healthy heart determines how well the rest of your body functions and your participation in everyday life. At Dr. Avi Ishaaya Centers, we provide a plethora of cardiac testing services to diagnose concerning heart conditions early so patients can get proper treatment as soon as possible. Board-certified physician Dr. Avi Ishaaya works with patients throughout Los Angeles, CA to help them better understand and take control of their cardiac health.

What are the signs of a heart condition?

In the medical world, there are dozens of heart conditions categorized by cause and severity, ranging from non life-threatening to fatal. Common signs of a heart condition may include:

• Abnormal heart rhythm (arrhythmia)

• Heart palpitations

• Chest pain

• Shortness of breath or trouble breathing

• Dizziness or lightheadedness

• Fatigue

• Heart fluttering

• History of fainting

• Poor circulation

Unfortunately, some of these signs or symptoms could indicate other health issues. At Dr. Avi Ishaaya Centers, Dr. Ishaaya can help patients ascertain which symptoms indicate an underlying heart condition.

Who is at risk for a heart condition?

Individuals could be at risk for developing a heart condition if they:

• Have a family history of heart disease

• Have a family history of high blood pressure

• Have a personal history of tobacco and/or alcohol use

• Have a personal history of substance use

• Have a sedentary lifestyle

• Eat unhealthy, fatty foods high in cholesterol and sodium

• Are overweight

• Are over the age of 45

• Have a congenital heart defect

• Have a history of hypothyroidism, polycystic ovary syndrome, or sleep apnea

• Have certain hormonal imbalances

Ways to prevent developing heart problems

Although not all heart conditions can be prevented, there are ways for some men and women to reduce their risk of developing certain heart diseases later in life. Some techniques include:

• Avoiding tobacco, alcohol, and substance use

• Reducing fat, cholesterol, and sodium intake

• Exercising regularly

• Staying well hydrated

• Getting enough sleep

• Reducing stress

• Keeping weight under control

• Getting well-acquainted with their family medical history

• Attending routine medical check-ups

What is heart testing?

Heart testing includes any professionally administered tests that assess the overall health of your heart. At Dr. Avi Ishaaya Centers, we offer a series of cardiac tests, or heart tests, to monitor your heart’s rhythm, rate, and blood flow to determine if there are any underlying heart conditions that require immediate treatment.

Benefits of heart testing

Men and women can benefit from early heart testing in multiple ways, including:

• Obtaining accurate diagnoses

• Participating in simple, quick testing procedures

• Early detection of cardiac problems

• Accessing relevant treatments sooner

Available heart testing services

Dr. Ishaaya offers the following heart testing services:

• Electrocardiogram (EKG): Measures the electrical activity of the heart to detect rhythmic abnormalities

• Echocardiogram (ECHO): Studies the speed and direction of blood flow in the heart using ultrasound waves

• Stress test (ECHO): Measures the functionality of the heart while applying physical exertion to the body, usually by having you walk or run on a treadmill

• Arterial ultrasounds: Assesses blood flow through major veins and arteries of the heart

• Cardiometabolic testing: Using a blood draw, this test can evaluate your risk for heart disease and diabetes

• At-home Holter monitor testing: Assesses the heartbeat via a heart monitor to be worn for 24 – 48 hours at home.

What happens when I get my heart testing results back?

Once your results have come back, Dr. Ishaaya will review the outcomes with you, discuss heart abnormalities, if any, and recommend available treatment options. You may also be asked to return for routine check-ups to assess your heart and to monitor or modify your treatment plan.

Learn more about heart testing for signs of a heart condition

If you reside in or near Los Angeles, CA, and would like to learn more about the benefits of heart testing, contact us at Dr. Avi Ishaaya Centers and schedule a consultation today. Dr. Avi Ishaaya will review your medical history and discuss your available heart testing options to get you on the right treatment plan and optimize your cardiac health.