Feel the love: Prepare for a heart-to-heart cardio convo

No doubt you enjoy showering love on those you care about with flowers, gifts or maybe dinner out—not just on Valentine’s Day, but all year. This year, why not give the gift of a healthy heart—for yourself and those you care about?

Start by having a talk with your doctor.

Like many of us, you might not ask a lot of questions about your heart health, but you should, whether you visit a primary care provider in person or talk to one online. Remember: it’s your appointment, so go knowing what you want to talk about and ask about your heart. 

Know your risks

Heart disease is the leading cause of death for people across the country, including in Maine. But here’s encouraging news: The Cleveland Clinic, one of the world’s best-known heart treatment centers, says 90% of heart disease can be prevented with lifestyle changes and advances in medicine.

At least 69% of Americans have at least one known risk factor, according to recent Cleveland Clinic survey. And addressing those risks early can make a huge difference when it comes to living a longer, healthier like. 

If you’re healthy with no symptoms, start your conversation by sharing any family history and asking about specific risks you might face, so you can do your best to stay healthy as you age. Here are some risks linked to heart disease: 

• High cholesterol
• High blood pressure
• Diabetes
• Tobacco smoking
• Obesity
• Daily unmanaged stress
• Sleep apnea
• Poor diet or sedentary lifestyle

Ask your primary care provider (PCP) to put your risks into context. For instance, discuss what a healthy cholesterol level looks like for you. Or how to work toward a healthier weight without unrealistic goals, like dropping from a size 20 to a size 6. Or how to build a plan to quit tobacco, possibly using a wellness program offered by your health plan or employer.

Blood pressure, cholesterol and diabetes screening are among the tests typically covered at no cost during a preventive visit, provided you haven’t already been diagnosed with a condition. (Learn more about which preventive services are covered in our blog.)

Manage symptoms and specific risks

If you have a wearable device, like a smartwatch, mobile apps may help you look for warning signs, such as an irregular heartbeat or low oxygen level. Among other things, these tools can also give you some insight into your sleep patterns or help guide breathing exercises to manage stress.

But devices and apps, or even at-home blood pressure monitors, don’t substitute for medical care. Talk to your doctor about which tests beyond basic screenings could help, especially if you have a family history of heart problems, or conditions like high cholesterol, high blood pressure or diabetes.

If you do have some conditions that could lead to heart disease, find out whether treatment could help. And if a prescribed medication, like a statin, doesn't work for you, don't just stop taking it. Ask your doctor about other options. 

Most important, if you have chest pain or pressure that’s not going away—and often for women, pain in your jaw—call 911 or go to an emergency room.

If you have pain, dizziness or pressure that comes and goes when you exert yourself but gets better when you sit down—like after doing chores or exercise—schedule an appointment with your doctor as soon as possible.

Community Health Options Members without a PCP can choose one in their Member portal, along with finding details about specific plan benefits, including coverage for preventive and non-preventive services. All Members over 18 also have access virtual primary care through Firefly Health.

Have a question about plans and what’s covered, or need help finding a PCP? Call Member Services at (855) 624-6463, Monday through Friday.

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