Preventive Cardiology

Preventive cardiology is a cornerstone of Dr. Turquieh’s practice, emphasizing the importance of early detection and proactive measures to maintain heart health and prevent cardiovascular diseases. His approach combines medical expertise and patient education, empowering individuals to take control of their heart health through lifestyle modifications and regular monitoring. While the general preventive measures are often the same , the risk of individual patients is different and therefore a one size PLAN does not fit all.

Risks

Preventive Cardiology has some risk assessment that allows a personalized prevention plan:

  • Medical History Review: Understanding the patient’s health background, including any family history of heart disease, previous heart conditions, and other relevant medical information.
  • Physical Examination: Evaluating vital signs such as blood pressure, heart rate, and body mass index (BMI).
  • Laboratory Tests: Conducting blood tests to check cholesterol levels, blood sugar levels, and other biomarkers that indicate heart health.

Lifestyle Modifications

  • Healthy Eating: Advising on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Dr. Turquieh and his team provide practical tips on reducing salt, sugar, and unhealthy fat intake to maintain optimal heart health.
  • Regular Exercise: Encouraging patients to engage in regular physical activity, such as aerobic exercises, strength training, and flexibility exercises that fit individual lifestyles.
  • Weight Management: Providing guidance on achieving and maintaining a healthy weight through diet and exercise, which is crucial for reducing the risk of heart disease.
  • Smoking Cessation: Offering support and resources, possibly medications to help patients quit smoking, one of the most significant risk factors for cardiovascular disease.
  • Stress Management: Teaching techniques for managing stress, such as mindfulness, meditation, and relaxation exercises, which can positively impact heart health.

Regular Monitoring and Follow-Up

  • Routine Check-Ups: Scheduling regular visits to monitor heart health and make any necessary adjustments to the prevention plan.
  • Blood Pressure Monitoring: Encouraging patients to regularly check their blood pressure at home and during office visits.
  • Cholesterol and Blood Sugar Levels: Regular testing to ensure these levels remain within healthy ranges.
These follow-ups enable Dr. Turquieh to track progress and intervene early if any issues arise.

Patient Education

Dr. Turquieh is dedicated to educating patients about heart health and prevention strategies. He provides:
  • Informative Consultations: Taking the time to explain heart health concepts, risk factors, and the importance of preventive measures.
  • Educational Materials: Offering brochures, handouts, and access to reliable online resources that provide further information on maintaining heart health.
  • Workshops and Seminars: Occasionally hosting events where patients can learn more about heart disease prevention and management.
Empowering patients with knowledge helps them make informed decisions about their health and fosters a proactive approach to heart disease prevention.

Preventive Screenings

In addition to lifestyle modifications and regular monitoring, preventive screenings are crucial. Dr. Turquieh may recommend:

  • Coronary Calcium Scoring: A CT scan that detects calcium deposits in the coronary arteries, indicating potential heart disease.
  • Carotid Ultrasound: An ultrasound of the carotid arteries to detect plaque buildup that could lead to stroke.
  • Advanced Lipid Testing: Detailed cholesterol testing to identify risk factors that standard tests might miss.
  • Blood tests for inflammatory markers

These screenings help in early detection of potential problems, allowing for timely interventions.