Cardiology
Heart Health Basics: Risk Factors and Early Warning Signs
By Content Writer, Dunman Medical Clinic
Heart disease often develops silently over years before symptoms appear, which is why cardiology isn't only for people who've already had a cardiac event. A heart health review looks at risk factors — blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar, family history, and lifestyle — to catch problems while they're still manageable through relatively simple changes.
Practical tips
Know your numbers
Blood pressure, cholesterol (LDL/HDL), and blood sugar are the core metrics. Ask for your actual readings rather than just 'normal' or 'high' — trends over time matter.
Family history changes your risk profile
A parent or sibling with early heart disease (before age 55 for men, 65 for women) is a significant risk factor worth flagging to your doctor.
Symptoms can be subtle, especially in women
Chest pain isn't the only warning sign — unusual fatigue, breathlessness, or jaw/back discomfort can also indicate cardiac issues and are often under-recognised.
Small, sustained changes outperform drastic ones
Consistent moderate exercise, reduced salt intake, and not smoking do more for long-term heart health than short bursts of intense lifestyle change.
When to see a doctor
Seek urgent care for chest pain or pressure, especially with breathlessness, sweating, or pain radiating to the arm or jaw — this could be a heart attack and needs emergency attention. Book a routine review if you have risk factors like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, or a family history of heart disease.
Have questions about cardiology?
Book a video consultation with a Dunman Medical Clinic doctor.
Book a consultationThis article is for general information only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified doctor about your specific situation. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 995 immediately.