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Heart disease is cited as the cause of approximately one in three deaths in the U.S. Lowering your risk of developing this deadly condition is crucial, and the team at Premier Cardiology Consultants can provide patients in Dothan, AL, with the information they need to make the right decisions about their health. The first step to mitigating risk is knowing the best methods for improving heart health, from quitting smoking to understanding the role family history plays.

Answers to Your Most Important Heart Disease Questions

Will Birth Control Pills Increase the Risk of Heart Disease?

While birth control pills have a minimal impact on heart health, certain factors can increase the risk. For instance, women who’ve been on the pill for ten years or longer have a higher risk of developing heart disease. The same can be said for women who smoke while taking the pill, which is why many doctors recommend quitting before starting an oral contraceptive regimen.

Is the Risk of Heart Disease Hereditary?

heart diseaseFamily history can play a role in heart attack risk under certain conditions. This is usually the case if a close relative — either a parent or sibling — has had a heart attack at an early age — before age 55 for females, and prior to age 45 for males.

Does Smoking Cigarettes Increase Risks?

While there are numerous reasons why smoking is bad for you, cardiologists also caution against the habit due to its impact on heart health. The fact is, the sooner you quit smoking, the less chance you have of developing heart disease. There are a variety of smoking cessation methods currently available, which can help ease the withdrawal effects of quitting.

Can Heart Disease Be Reversed?

Taking steps to improving your health can reverse the effects of heart disease. This is particularly true when it comes to blocked arteries; lowering the “bad” cholesterol component has been shown to cut back on artery blockage, thereby lowering the risk. You can also work on things like blood pressure, and refrain from smoking — which offers numerous benefits.

Contact Premier Cardiology Consultants to begin your journey towards a happy and healthy life. Schedule an appointment in Dothan by calling (334) 699-6396. You can also visit this practice online for more information on the full range of health services offered.

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