The way we live our lives has a lot to do with whether we develop heart disease. Knowing your risk factors for heart disease gives you the opportunity to make the long-term changes necessary to eliminate or reduce your chance of developing heart problems. By making lifestyle changes after a cardiac event occurs, it is possible to significantly reduce the chance of premature death and recurrence of heart problems.

1. Do you have a family history of heart attacks or heart disease? Yes No
2. Have you been diagnosed with heart disease? Yes No
3. Have you ever had a heart attack? Yes No
4. Do you have high cholesterol? Yes No
5. Do you have high blood pressure? Yes No
6. Are you a smoker? Yes No
7. Do you or others think you lead a stressful life? Yes No
8. Have people told you, or do you think you have “Type A” personality? Yes No
9. Do you drink more alcohol than you should? Yes No
10. Is your lifestyle more sedentary or inactive, with little or no exercise? Yes No
11. Are you considered to be overweight or obese? Yes No
12. Do you have diabetes? Yes No
13. Have you ever thought you were depressed? Yes No
14. Do you worry a lot or consider yourself a nervous or anxious person? Yes No
15. Do you live alone? Yes No
16. Do you have people in your life who aren’t helpful with your medical needs? Yes No
17. Do you tend to ignore your own medical symptoms or health problems? Yes No
18. Do you regularly find yourself angry, frustrated and/or impatient Yes No

If you answered Yes to four or more of these questions, it is advisable that you seek counseling to address your risk factors for heart disease. If you have been experiencing chest pain, heart palpitations, shortness of breath, fatigue or dizziness, call 911, go to the emergency room or call your doctor immediately.

Dr. Lees has specialized experience helping patients and families change the lifestyle factors that contribute to heart disease. We can teach you how to make positive changes for the long-term to reduce or eliminate your risk factors for heart disease.

If you need a cardiologist, go to:

https://healthcare.ascension.org/specialty-care/cardiology

https://www.froedtert.com/heart-care/doctors

https://www.aurorahealthcare.org/services/heart-vascular/our-team

http://www.prohealthcare.org/services-heart-and-vascular-care-team.aspx