You may have heard that heart disease is one of the worldwide leading causes of death. Unfortunately, people often don’t realize they have heart problems until they start experiencing symptoms. However, thanks to advanced cardiac imaging, you no longer have to wait for symptoms to appear. Using tools such as cardiovascular CT scanners, you can identify issues sooner rather than later, which helps prevent heart disease from occurring in the first place.
At South Tampa Cardiology, we combine high-quality technology with key expertise to achieve early detection, accurate diagnoses and personalized treatment plans. Let’s take a closer look at preventative cardiology, including its benefits, its role in heart disease prevention and whether it’s right for you.
What is Advanced Cardiac Imaging and How Does It Help Prevent Heart Disease?
Put simply, advanced cardiac imaging refers to medical technologies that offer detailed images of the heart and its structures. By providing clear visuals, this type of imaging detects early signs of heart disease, including structural abnormalities or plaque buildup in the arteries. It also helps assess current heart function and diagnose any related issues, such as high blood pressure or cholesterol.
At South Tampa Cardiology, we use Spotlight Cardiovascular CT Scanning technology to produce extremely clear images of the heart. Compared to other scanners, Spotlight scanners use lower levels of radiation, which allows for more strengthen monitoring and better care. We’re the only cardiology center in Florida that utilizes this technology, making us stand out as experts in heart care.
The Benefits of Seeing a Preventative Cardiologist for Heart Health
In addition to reducing the risk of heart disease, preventative cardiology offers the following benefits:
- Early Risk Detection: Advanced cardiac imaging helps identify risk factors like high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes, which supports timely intervention. By addressing risk factors as early as possible, you can help prevent life-threatening symptoms from arising.
- Improved Well-Being: Heart disease prevention isn’t just about reducing future risk; it’s also about solving current problems. By treating any emerging heart issues, preventative cardiology improves current well-being and sets the stage for long-term wellness.
- Cost Savings: Preventing heart disease through early intervention can reduce or even eliminate the need for costly hospitalizations and treatments later on.
- Enhanced Mental Wellness: Worrying about your heart health is stressful. Advanced cardiac imaging provides key knowledge about your health, which may help alleviate concerns.
- Better Quality of Life: Improving your heart health improves physical and mental wellness, leading to better quality of life.
What to Expect During Your Advanced Cardiac Imaging Appointment
Now that you know the benefits of preventative cardiology, you may be wondering: What’s the process like? During your appointment, you’ll lie down on a bed as the scanner collects images. The scan, which usually takes around ten minutes, is both simple and minimally invasive.
Once the scan is done, we’ll evaluate your images to assess your current heart health and any future risks. Then, we’ll design a personalized treatment plan that utilizes lifestyle changes to help fortify your heart. Depending on your condition, your plan may also include medication and surgical intervention. As you progress with the plan, we’ll conduct regular imaging to help monitor results and ensure effective treatment.
Is Advanced Cardiac Imaging Right for You? Key Factors to Consider
Many people falsely assume that they don’t need advanced cardiac imaging unless they start noticing symptoms. In reality, it’s best to evaluate your heart health before symptoms even have the chance to occur. Still unsure whether you’re a good candidate? Consider the following factors:
- Family History: People with a family history of heart disease are more likely to have heart problems.
- Risk Factors: You should get a consultation if you meet any risk factors of heart disease, including high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes and unhealthy lifestyle habits (such as smoking).
- Personal Concerns: You don’t have to experience symptoms to be worried about your heart health. If you have any concerns, advanced cardiac imaging can help address them.
Dr. Morales: The Dual Expertise of Preventative Cardiology and Imaging
Do you want to protect your heart and long-term health through preventative cardiology? For the best results, you should always work with an experienced professional, such as Dr. Morales at South Tampa Cardiology. Dr. Morales is uniquely certified in both cardiology and advanced imaging, which helps him achieve more accurate diagnoses and better treatment outcomes. In addition to impressive credentials, he offers a trustworthy reputation, state-of-the-art materials and an unwavering commitment to patients. Schedule a consultation today for excellent heart disease prevention!