There are some basic tests you can do to monitor your heart and make sure it is staying healthy.

First and foremost – check your blood pressure. Though one single reading won’t tell the tale, keeping a journal of readings can establish a baseline. If you are consistently within a good range, fantastic. If your readings are often higher than they should be or consistently lower it may be time to visit your physician.

What’s normal?

Your blood pressure is a reading of the pressure in your arteries every time your heart pumps and relaxes. Systolic is the contracted measurement and Diastolic measures the relaxation between beats.

“Normal” for a resting adult is 120 over 80 or less. Hypertension begins at 140/90 or higher. You may not think a high reading is a big deal but what happens over time is that adding that extra pressure can stiffen and even narrow the artery walls blocking natural blood flow to and from the heart. This can lead to heart attack or heart disease.

Your Heart Rate Counts

Your heart rate is the number of times your heart beats within one minute. When monitored by using a stethoscope the opening and closing of your heart valves can also be heard and checked for abnormalities. The normal range goes from 60 to 100 beats per minute. If yours is higher – it may be a sign your heart is working too hard.

Get a Blood Test

A blood test is a great way to monitor health. Your doctor can look at your levels of potassium, sodium, albumin, and creatinine. Abnormal levels can signal heart problems including failure as well as other issues with cholesterol, liver and or kidneys.

How do you Feel When You Exercise?

Getting regular exercise strengthens the heart muscle as well as the rest of your body. It is important to note that cardiovascular exercise shouldn’t make your chest hurt. If it does, check with your doctor before continuing any exercise program.

If you are in the Tampa, Florida area and in need of a Cardiovascular Physician please think of Tampa Cardiovascular Associates www.tampacardio.com. Give us a call at 813-975-2800.