Family History of Heart Issues

Family History of Heart Issues services offered in Santa Monica, CA

If you have a family history of heart issues, you know that protecting your health is vital for you and the people you love. While it’s impossible to control all aspects of heart disease, Jenica L. Ortega, MD, at Commons Clinic in Santa Monica, California, offers expert diagnostic and preventive care. Experienced cardiologist Dr. Ortega provides no-rush appointments to truly listen to your concerns and tailor recommendations to manage your risk of heart issues. To get started, you can call the office or book online today.

Family History of Heart Issues Q & A

What indicates a family history of heart issues?

Your family’s medical history can provide vital warnings on how to protect your own health. Talk to Dr. Ortega if you have:

A first-degree relative, such as a parent or sibling, who has had a heart attack or stroke before 55 (or 65 for females). Many family members with cardiac disease, stroke or vascular disease
A close family member with high blood pressure or high cholesterol, especially if they got a diagnosis at a young age
Other cardiovascular problems in your family, such as an irregular heartbeat (like atrial fibrillation), cardiomyopathy, or heart valve disease
A family history of sudden cardiac death or cardiac arrest
Multiple family members on either the maternal or paternal side have heart disease
Family members with congential heart disease
Family members with a bicuspid aortic valve, enlarged aortas or aortas that have ruptured

It’s a good idea to discuss your risk and develop a course of action with Dr. Ortega to protect your health if a close relative has undergone procedures like angioplasty or heart bypass surgery.

What can I expect from preventive care and treatment if I have a family history of heart issues?

Dr. Ortega listens carefully to any symptoms and personalizes your care plan to account for your increased risk. She may recommend:

Earlier and more frequent checks for blood pressure, blood glucose, and cholesterol levels
Diagnostic tests like an ECG/EKG or a CT coronary angio with calcium score
Lifestyle adjustments
Genetic tests
Prescription medications

Dr. Ortega helps you combine professional medical care with personal choices that promote wellness.

With a family history of heart issues, what steps can I take to protect my health?

Dr. Ortega can make tailored lifestyle recommendations and ensure you’re safe to begin exercise programs with a cardiac stress test, if necessary. You can enjoy better health with:

A diet that supports heart health

Find delicious ways to eat plenty of protein, whole grains, vegetables, and fruits.

A sustainable exercise program

Maintaining a healthy weight helps lower your cholesterol and blood pressure, and exercise benefits weight management while also helping control stress levels.