Why Regular Cardiac Screening Matters
Taking care of your heart health is one of the most important things you can do to maintain overall well-being. Whether you have a known heart condition, a family history of heart disease, or simply want to stay on top of your health, regular heart checks in Surrey can help detect potential problems early and prevent serious complications.
As someone who works closely with patients undergoing cardiac screenings, I know how valuable these tests can be in catching issues before they become serious. In this blog, I’ll explain what heart checks involve, who should consider them, and how they can help safeguard your health.
Why Are Heart Checks Important?
Heart disease remains one of the leading causes of illness and death in the UK. Many conditions, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and coronary artery disease, develop without noticeable symptoms in the early stages. A heart check can identify risk factors and allow for early intervention.
Regular heart checks in Surrey can help:
Detect high blood pressure and cholesterol levels early.
Identify heart rhythm abnormalities like atrial fibrillation.
Assess the risk of heart disease and stroke.
Monitor existing heart conditions.
Provide personalised advice to improve heart health.
For more information on the importance of heart screenings, visit the British Heart Foundation.
Who Should Get a Heart Check?
While anyone can benefit from a heart check, certain people should consider regular screening, particularly if they have:
High blood pressure or high cholesterol.
Diabetes, which increases the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or palpitations.
A sedentary lifestyle, obesity, or a high-stress job.
A history of smoking or excessive alcohol consumption.
Even if you feel perfectly healthy, routine heart checks can provide peace of mind and ensure your heart is functioning well.
What Do Heart Checks Involve?
A comprehensive heart check includes several tests to assess different aspects of cardiovascular health.
1. Blood Pressure Check
High blood pressure (hypertension) is a major risk factor for heart disease. A simple blood pressure test can help detect hypertension early, allowing for lifestyle changes or medication to reduce risks.
2. Blood Tests
Blood tests measure cholesterol levels, blood sugar, and markers of inflammation, all of which provide insight into heart health.
Lipid Profile – Checks cholesterol and triglyceride levels.
Glucose Test – Screens for diabetes, a major heart disease risk factor.
C-reactive Protein (CRP) Test – Detects inflammation linked to heart disease.
3. ECG (Electrocardiogram)
An ECG records the heart’s electrical activity and helps identify arrhythmias, heart attacks, or signs of coronary artery disease.
Resting ECG – Measures heart function while at rest.
Exercise ECG (Stress Test) – Assesses how the heart responds to physical exertion.
4. Echocardiogram (Heart Ultrasound)
An echocardiogram uses ultrasound waves to examine the heart’s chambers, valves, and overall function. This test is useful for detecting heart failure, valve disease, or cardiomyopathy.
5. 24-Hour ECG or Holter Monitoring
If you have symptoms like palpitations or dizziness, a 24-hour ECG monitor may be recommended to track your heart rhythm over a full day.
6. CT Coronary Angiogram
For individuals at high risk of heart disease, a CT coronary angiogram provides a detailed view of the coronary arteries to check for narrowing or blockages.
Where to Get Heart Checks in Surrey
If you’re looking for heart checks in Surrey, you have several options, including NHS screenings and private cardiology clinics.
1. NHS Heart Health Checks
The NHS offers free heart health checks for individuals aged 40–74 as part of a general cardiovascular risk assessment.
If you have symptoms such as chest pain or shortness of breath, your GP may refer you for further tests.
For details on NHS heart health checks, visit the NHS heart health check guide.
2. Private Heart Checks in Surrey
For those who want a more comprehensive assessment, private heart checks provide faster access to diagnostics and personalised care.
At Heartsure, we offer:
Same-day or next-day appointments.
Advanced cardiac screening tailored to your needs.
Comprehensive tests, including ECGs, echocardiograms, and CT scans.
Expert consultations with leading cardiologists.
If you are concerned about your heart health or want a detailed cardiac evaluation, contact us here to schedule an appointment. You can also book an appointment online here
How Often Should You Get a Heart Check?
The frequency of heart checks depends on your individual risk factors.
Healthy individuals (low risk) – Every 3–5 years as part of general health maintenance.
Individuals with risk factors (high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol) – Every 1–2 years.
Patients with existing heart conditions – As recommended by a cardiologist, often annually.
Over 40s – Routine checks every few years to assess cardiovascular risk.
If you develop new symptoms, such as chest pain, breathlessness, or palpitations, you should seek medical advice as soon as possible.
How to Improve Heart Health Between Check-Ups
Between heart checks, there are several ways to maintain a healthy heart:
Adopt a heart-friendly diet – Eat more fruit, vegetables, and whole grains, and reduce salt and saturated fats.
Stay active – Aim for 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week.
Monitor blood pressure and cholesterol – Keep them within healthy ranges.
Quit smoking and limit alcohol – Both contribute to heart disease risk.
Manage stress – High stress levels can negatively impact heart health.
For more advice on heart health, visit the British Heart Foundation.
Conclusion
Regular heart checks in Surrey are an essential step in maintaining long-term heart health. Whether you have symptoms, risk factors, or simply want peace of mind, routine screenings can help detect problems early and prevent serious complications.
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