Tip of the Day: Get Annual Health Checkups

In light of our very dear John C. Dvorak undergoing a double-bypass after a recent medical exam. We are recommending that you get annual health checkups. Once you get a bit older, it’s good to keep tabs on your heart and vascular system. Here’s info about heart disease from the Mayo Clinic and when to get your heart checked from Columbia University.

Get well, John! We are thinking of you and hope you get back on your feet soon.

Getting Your Heart Checked

Getting your heart checked involves a combination of physical exams and diagnostic tests to assess your cardiovascular health and risk factors. Key screenings include blood pressure checks, lipid panels (cholesterol), blood sugar tests, ECGs (electrical activity), echocardiograms (ultrasound imaging), and stress tests. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5] 

Key Heart Check Components & Tests:

• Physical Exam: A doctor or cardiologist will review your history, blood pressure, and weight. 
• Blood Tests: Measures cholesterol (HDL/LDL), blood sugar, and cardiac biomarkers like troponin, which help detect heart muscle injury. 
• Electrocardiogram (EKG/ECG): A quick, noninvasive test measuring the heart’s electrical activity to detect arrhythmias or signs of a heart attack. 
• Echocardiogram: An ultrasound to view the heart’s chambers, valves, and pumping efficiency. 
• Stress Test: Assesses heart function under physical exertion (treadmill or exercise bike). 
• Imaging: Cardiac CT or MRI scans can identify structural problems, blockages, or calcium buildup in arteries. 
• Holter Monitor: A portable device worn for 1–2 days to record heart rhythm. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7] 

Why Get Checked?Regular check-ups are essential to identify risks, even if you feel healthy. They help detect conditions like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or structural issues before they become severe. [1, 3, 8, 9] 

When to Seek Immediate Care:Seek immediate medical attention if you experience symptoms like chest pain, pressure, or discomfort, as these may indicate a serious, acute issue. [3, 4, 8] 

Disclaimer: Consult with a healthcare professional to determine which tests are appropriate for you based on your age, family history, and personal health factors.

[1] https://www.christushealth.org/connect/your-health/cardiovascular-health/cardiologist-visit

[2] https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diagnostics/heart-screening

[3] https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/understanding-your-heart-test

[4] https://www.columbiadoctors.org/health-library/special/heart-tests-when-do-you-need-them/

[5] https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/heart-disease/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20353124

[6] https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/ekg/about/pac-20384983

[7] https://www.healthpartners.com/blog/heart-tests-and-heart-screenings-why-when-and-how/

[8] https://healthy.kaiserpermanente.org/health-wellness/health-encyclopedia/he.heart-tests-when-do-you-need-them.aba5713

[9] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wTDSQeJ6ziY