How your cardiologist in West Monroe, and Winnsboro, LA, can help you.

If you have ever suffered from chest pain, you know how scary it can be. It’s normal to wonder if it will go away on its own, so you might be tempted to wait it out. That could be a mistake because chest pain is a common symptom of heart issues. It’s best to visit your cardiologist.

Dr. Virginia Gonzalez at Cardiovascular Diagnostic Center offers a wide range of cardiology services. She has two convenient office locations in West Monroe, and Winnsboro, LA, to help you.

So, how do you know when to visit your cardiologist? You should seek out the services and expertise of a cardiologist if you experience:

• Chest pain or pressure that feels like a squeezing sensation
• Radiating pain running into your neck, jaw, shoulders, or arms
• Chest pain that doesn’t go away, even with rest
• Increasing chest pain, along with paleness, sweating, and breathing problems
• An irregular or rapid pulse or heartbeat

You can do a lot to help prevent heart problems by living a heart-healthy lifestyle. Remember to:

Avoid using tobacco products and smoking because tobacco use is a major risk factor for heart problems, and other major diseases.

Have your blood pressure and cholesterol monitored regularly. Normal blood pressure is 120/80, and a high cholesterol level is 200mg/dl or greater.

Take your medications as prescribed to maintain optimal health.

Eat a heart-healthy diet low in fat. Switch out red meat and eat poultry and fish instead. Switch out full-fat dairy products and choose low fat dairy.

Exercise regularly. Try to fit in at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week. Aerobic exercises like walking or swimming can boost heart health.

Your cardiologist is an expert at treating:

• Angina
• Heart disease
• Congestive heart failure
• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol
• Atherosclerosis and arteriosclerosis

To learn more about cardiology services and how they can help you, talk with an expert. Call Dr. Virginia Gonzalez at Cardiovascular Diagnostic Center. You can reach her in both the West Monroe, and Winnsboro, LA, offices by calling (318) 338-3540, so call now.