Going to a specialist at a Brooklyn heart and vascular center can be intimidating to some patients, but the truth is that these medical professionals are only there to help. If you’re unsure if you should see a heart or vascular doctor, here’s a little more information for you to think about and find the answers you’re looking for.
Did you know that heart disease is the top killer in the United States?
No matter how old you are, heart disease could take hold. It’s smart to see a heart or vascular specialist if you have any family members with this disease or have other risk factors that may affect you. If you have symptoms of heart disease, then it’s time to go see your local specialist now.
What Are the Symptoms of a Heart Attack?
Men and women may have different symptoms of a heart attack. Some common symptoms for men include:
- Discomfort in the body, particularly in the upper back, shoulders, neck or arms.
- Dizziness, sweating, vomiting or lightheadedness
- Shortness of breath
- Pressure, squeezing or pain in the chest
Women may have the same symptoms as above or additional symptoms including:
- Flu-like symptoms
- Extreme fatigue
- Discomfort in the upper abdomen
- Discomfort in the lower chest
- Fainting
If you or someone you love experiences any of these symptoms, call 911 or go straight to the hospital emergency room.
How Does Vascular Disease Vary from Heart Disease?
Vascular disease is also known as the “silent threat.” It affects the circulation system, but not necessarily the heart. You are likely a candidate for screening if you are over 70, are over 50 but have a history of smoking or diabetes or have risk factors such as high blood pressure or obesity and are 50 or younger.
Vascular disease is different from heart disease, because heart disease can include several diseases such as heart defects, coronary artery disease and arrhythmias. Vascular disease includes any abnormal condition of the arteries and veins.
Since the diseases that fall under these terms vary, the symptoms do as well. Some symptoms for blood clots, for instance, may include pain that can be pinpointed and heat around the area. On the other hand, an aneurysm may cause sudden blindness or kill a person immediately.
Heart diseases and vascular diseases may develop over time, but they can also come on quickly. If you have any of the signs of symptoms of these illnesses, you need to seek medical care right away at a local Brooklyn heart and vascular center.