Sponsored Content by Cardiovascular Institute of the South

If you are in your 30s or younger, you may not think of a visit to your cardiologist as an essential doctor’s appointment. 

You may consider cardiovascular care as only necessary for older patients or those with preexisting risks of heart disease. But when it comes to the question of when to see a cardiologist, the answer is the earlier, the better. Negative heart conditions can occur at any time, no matter your age or family history. And with regular checkups, you can help keep your heart healthy and catch any concerns as soon as possible. Here’s why it’s never too early to start seeing a cardiologist.

Know Your Risk

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, regardless of age, and those risks increase as you age.

 By middle age, it’s a good idea to begin annual cardiology checkups. But don’t let this be your starting point! A study from 2016 shows that heart attacks are occurring in young patients as early as those in their 20s. Even if you are in your 30s with no symptoms, consider your risk factors, like family history. 

Visiting a cardiologist in these early years can be an important step towards knowing your risks and preventing heart disease before symptoms emerge.

Live a Healthy Lifestyle

Heart disease may not show itself until a heart attack or stroke occurs. You may look and feel healthy, but you never know what may be lurking under the surface. 

Still, a healthy lifestyle is one of the best ways to protect your heart and lessen your risk. Exercise and a balanced diet are great places to start. These can help to lower your blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Also, abstaining from smoking is one of the first and primary forms of prevention you can practice. 

Start these lifestyle habits young to promote healthier aging, especially for your heart! Along with maintaining healthy habits, keep up with regular visits to your cardiologist so that you can prevent heart disease before it strikes. Don’t wait until warning signs are present to decide that it’s time to start seeing a cardiologist.

The Time is Now

Say yes to prioritizing your heart health today, no matter your age. Schedule an appointment with a cardiologist at CIS in Zachary today. Call 225-654-1559 or visit cardio.com.

See more articles in the Healthy Aging Special Section by clicking here.