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Understanding your basic health numbers is one of the first steps in protecting your heart health. Routine checkups, blood pressure screenings, and basic bloodwork can help identify risks before they become serious.
The information below is educational only and should not replace medical advice from a licensed healthcare provider.
Blood Pressure
Blood Pressure
Why it matters:
High blood pressure often has no symptoms but can increase the risk of heart attack, stroke, kidney disease, and heart failure.
What to ask:
“What is my blood pressure, and is it in a healthy range?”
Cholesterol
Cholesterol
Why it matters:
Cholesterol testing can help identify whether fatty buildup may be increasing the risk of heart disease.
Numbers to know:
Total cholesterol, LDL, HDL, and triglycerides.
What to ask:
“Should I have my cholesterol checked, and what do my results mean?”
A1C / Blood Sugar
A1C / Blood Sugar
Why it matters:
High blood sugar, prediabetes, and diabetes can increase the risk of heart disease.
What to ask:
“Should I be screened for diabetes or prediabetes?”
Weight / BMI
Weight / BMI
Why it matters:
Weight is only one part of health, but it can help a provider understand your overall risk when reviewed with blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar, family history, and lifestyle.
What to ask:
“Is my weight affecting my heart health risk?”
Family History
Family History
Why it matters:
Heart disease, heart attacks, strokes, high blood pressure, or diabetes in close family members may increase your risk.
What to ask:
“Because of my family history, should I be screened earlier or more often?”
Lifestyle Factors
Lifestyle Factors
Why it matters:
Smoking, poor sleep, stress, diet, alcohol use, and physical inactivity can all affect heart health.
What to ask:
“What changes would make the biggest difference for my heart health?”
Questions to Bring to a Doctor
Questions to Bring to a Doctor
If you are able to schedule a checkup, consider asking:
What is my blood pressure?
Should I have cholesterol bloodwork?
Should I be checked for diabetes or prediabetes?
Does my family history increase my risk?
Are there symptoms I should watch for?
What should I do before my next visit?
Knowing your numbers can be an important first step in your heart health journey.
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