Risk factors
There are a number of hereditary and lifestyle-related factors that affect the health of your heart.
Major risk factors
- High blood pressure (hypertension)
- High cholesterol
- Diabetes
- Obesity
- Smoking
- Physical inactivity
- Gender
- Age
Contributing risk factors
- Stress
- Sex hormones
- Birth control pills
- Alcohol
Prevention of heart disease
Research has shown that most cardiovascular diseases can be prevented by addressing behavioral risk factors such as tobacco use, unhealthy diet and obesity, physical inactivity and an excess use of alcohol.
It’s also extremely important to recognize the need to get tested annually for high blood pressure, which is a leading early indicator of heart disease. If you haven’t been tested this year, contact your primary care provider to make an appointment.
Diseases and conditions
Our experienced cardiologists use a personal approach to treat a wide range of heart diseases and conditions — both new and pre-existing, for you and your family.
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- Arrhythmia/atrial fibrillation
- Cardiovascular disease
- Coronary artery disease
- Congestive heart failure
- Hypertension
- Lipid and cholesterol disorders
Treatment
From cardiac prevention to surgery, and recovery, we offer comprehensive heart health care.
At Optum, you’ll find state-of-the-art equipment and experienced specialists to give you the most accurate testing, effective treatment and surgical procedures.
Testing
- Echo stress test: A test that assesses how your heart works under stress
- Electrocardiogram (EKG): A test that records the electrical signals your heart makes
- Carotid artery Doppler: A test to see how well blood flows through the arteries in your neck
- Echocardiogram (echo): A test that uses sound waves to check the function and structure of your heart
- Nuclear stress test: A test that uses special cameras to look for damaged or dead heart muscle
Heart monitoring and surgical procedures
- Wired/wireless event monitoring
- Holter monitoring
- Defibrillator monitoring
- Pacemaker monitoring
- Cardiac catheterization
Medical care and help
Find ongoing personalized care and support for your heart health at Optum.
To find a cardiologist near you, visit our Provider page.
If you are having a medical emergency, call 911 immediately.