Your heart health checklist: What to know, what to ask and what to do about heart disease

When we think of heart disease, we often picture a dramatic heart attack scene in a movie. But in real life, heart disease is usually more subtle—and far more common. Many heart and vascular conditions develop gradually, often without obvious symptoms, yet they can have serious long-term consequences if left unaddressed.

The good news? You can take meaningful steps to understand your risk, identify early warning signs and prevent heart disease before it becomes a crisis.

Here’s what you need to know, what lifestyle changes can help and what questions to ask your doctor to take charge of your heart health.

Heart disease isn’t just heart attacks: Understanding the full picture

"Heart disease" is an umbrella term that includes a wide range of conditions affecting not only the heart itself but also the blood vessels throughout your body. You might also hear the term cardiovascular disease, which covers both the heart and the circulatory system—from your brain to your legs.

These conditions include:

• Coronary artery disease: A substance called plaque builds up in the arteries that supply blood to your heart
• Arrhythmias: Irregular heart rhythms caused by abnormal electrical signals
• Structural heart issues: Conditions you’re born with or develop over time, such as faulty valves or weakened heart muscle

If left untreated, any of these conditions can lead to serious complications, including heart attacks, stroke or heart failure.

Common types of heart disease you should know

Each form of heart disease has its own symptoms and treatment strategies. Knowing the most common types can help you recognize warning signs early.

• Coronary artery disease (CAD): Affects 1 in 20 adults over age 20. Plaque buildup narrows arteries, reducing blood flow to the heart.
• Heart failure: The heart becomes too weak or stiff to pump blood effectively. This condition is increasingly common and can develop from other heart problems.
• Arrhythmia: These abnormal rhythms, like atrial fibrillation (AFib), can increase stroke risk and often require ongoing management.
• Peripheral artery disease (PAD): While not inherently a heart disease, PAD is linked to CAD and involves narrowed arteries in your limbs.
• Heart valve disease: Occurs when one or more of the heart’s valves don’t open or close properly. Common examples include aortic stenosis and mitral valve prolapse.

7 heart disease risk factors

Your age and family history matter—but so do your daily choices. Many risk factors for heart disease are manageable, especially if caught early.

Here are key risk factors to monitor:

1. High blood pressure: Often symptom-free, high blood pressure (also known as hypertension) quietly damages arteries and organs over time.
2. High cholesterol: Especially high LDL (“bad”) cholesterol can contribute to plaque buildup.
3. Diabetes or prediabetes: Uncontrolled blood sugar impacts blood vessels and raises your risk for other conditions.
4. Smoking and excessive alcohol use: Both significantly raise your risk and harm your heart’s structure and function.
5. Lack of physical activity: Regular movement lowers blood pressure, boosts healthy cholesterol and controls blood sugar.
6. Poor sleep: Sleep affects everything from blood pressure to inflammation—both important for your heart health.
7. Unhealthy diet: Minimize sodium, unhealthy fats and processed foods. Focus on whole grains, fruits, vegetables and lean proteins.

Subtle warning signs you shouldn’t ignore

Heart disease doesn’t always announce itself with chest pain. Early signs can be mild, persistent or mistaken for something else. Talk to your doctor if you notice:

• Shortness of breath during regular activities
• Unexplained fatigue or weakness
• Chest pressure or discomfort
• Swelling in your legs, ankles or feet
• Irregular heartbeat, fluttering or skipped beats
• Dizziness or fainting
• Pain in your jaw, neck, arms or back
• Excessive sweating without exertion

Smart questions to ask your doctor

Taking control of your heart health starts with a conversation. Whether you’re at a routine checkup or talking to a specialist, here are questions that can help guide the discussion:

• What are my blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar numbers?
• How does my family history affect my heart health?
• Are any of my current medications or conditions putting my heart at risk?
• Should I have any screening tests, like a cholesterol panel, EKG or coronary calcium scan?
• What lifestyle changes would benefit me the most?
• How often should I be monitored for heart health?
• What symptoms should I watch for in the future?

Want to learn more about your heart health? Take our heart health quiz.

Your heart, your health, your plan

Heart disease is complex—but prevention doesn’t have to be. You and your doctor can work together to create a personalized plan that fits your needs, goals, and lifestyle.

Don’t wait for symptoms to take action. Make the appointment, ask the questions and take small, sustainable steps toward a stronger, healthier heart.

Ready to take the next step? Find a heart specialist near you.