CONWAY REGIONAL

RONAK SONI, MD BOARD-CERTIFIED CARDIOLOGIST

WHAT IS THE BEST WAY TO PREVENT CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE?

The best way to prevent cardiovascular disease is to identify risk factors and manage those with your primary care provider and cardiologist. Even if someone does not have symptoms of heart disease, it is essential to have annual screenings and find problems early.

WHAT ARE THE MOST IMPORTANT RISK FACTORS FOR CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE THAT CAN BE MANAGED?

Risk factors that can be managed on an individual level include seeing a primary care provider regularly, stopping smoking, managing diabetes and blood pressure, maintaining a healthy weight, getting the recommended amount of sleep each night and creating environments of minimal stress.

WHAT KIND OF EXERCISE IS THE MOST EFFECTIVE FOR HEART HEALTH?

Aerobic exercise is the best type of exercise when keeping a healthy lifestyle for your heart. Everyday activities such as household chores, gardening and walking your dog are small ways to stay active and improve heart health.

WHAT ARE THE COMMON SYMPTOMS OF A HEART ATTACK?

The main sign of a heart attack is chest discomfort and pressure, usually in the center of the chest. Other symptoms can include neck discomfort, arm pain, cold sweats, nausea, vomiting and shortness of breath.

HOW IMPORTANT IS IT TO VISIT A PHYSICIAN?

It is very important to see your primary care provider regularly so they can spot warning signs and manage risk factors before you develop heart disease.

WHAT SHOULD I DO IF I THINK I MAY BE HAVING A HEART ATTACK?

A fast response by health care professionals is essential for the patient’s survival and quality of life. Anyone experiencing heart attack symptoms should call 911 immediately. Most emergency responders are equipped with mobile communication technology that can transmit electrocardiograms from the ambulance directly to the emergency room. Once the EKG is sent to the ER, the heart team will be onsite when the patient arrives. I am proud to work at Conway Regional, where the heart and stroke teams have achieved the American Heart Association’s gold standard awards and are among the fastest rapid response teams in the state.