This year almost 800,000 people will have a heart attack for the first time and in 20% of the cases, death will result. Cardiovascular disease remains the number one cause of death in the United States and is almost entirely preventable. We are now offering at our practice a chance to reduce your risk through early detection with EndoPAT testing – an innovative, safe, and non-invasive diagnostic test for endothelial function of our large and small arteries. It’s primary goal to evaluate individuals who are at intermediate risk for non-obstructive heart disease, those with Metabolic Syndrome, or who don’t respond to typical therapy. EndoPAT testing is like a heart “mammogram” to assess heart disease risk and aid in early prevention therapies to stop progression. Endothelial function that is normal is protective against atherosclerosis or hardening of the arteries. Atherosclerosis begins early in life and develops slowly over a lifetime. Eating the Standard American Diet and not being physically active causes fatty, yellow streaks to appear on the endothelium of blood vessels. This then triggers an inflammatory response. Over time, a plaque develops and it will eventually grow until it blocks the vessel or ruptures causing a heart attack. Studies have shown that endothelial dysfunction can be detected 3-7 years before a heart attack. By detecting at this early stage, one can employ lifestyle changes to prevent or slow progression of heart disease.

Women and Heart Health

Women can have atypical symptoms of heart disease which can make it more difficult to diagnose. Symptoms like fatigue, shortness of breath, and depression can be precursors to a cardiac event. Besides classic risk factors like high LDL cholesterol, central adiposity, and elevated blood sugar, women with anemia, pre-menopausal high blood pressure, and PCOS are also at increased risk for heart disease. Stress tests are indicated to identify early markers of heart disease but have a higher percentage of false positive results for women. EndoPAT testing can provide reassurance that you are low risk for a heart attack or identify early signs of dysfunction and inflammation. Talk to your physician today to discuss if EndoPat testing is right for you. By Alliance Integrative Medicine