What are some red flags for arterial and other chronic diseases?

There are many conditions associated with arterial and other chronic diseases that lurk silently only to become suddenly lethal. These “red flags” reveal increased risk of heart attack, stroke, and other consequences of chronic disease. They are not clearly causative or modifiable.  But they can motivate curiosity and motivate.

Pay attention to them. The more red flags you recognize, the more you should want to know what may be lurking in you that could suddenly or slowly cost you your health… or even your life.

In addition to the following red flags, keep in mind that men over 40 years of age, women over 50, and individuals of African-American or Hispanic descent are also at higher risk of chronic disease.

• Personal or family history of cardiovascular/arterial disease, heart attack, stroke, or Type 2 Diabetes

• Age (men over 40 and women over 50)

• Gestational diabetes

• Elevated cholesterol

• Nicotine use in any form (including second-hand smoke)

• Psychosocial issues such as depression, anxiety, or stress

• High blood pressure

• Abdominal obesity (high levels of visceral fat)

• Sleep problems (not enough sleep, sleep apnea, etc.)

• Periodontal/Endodontal disease

• Erectile dysfunction

• Rheumatoid arthritis

• Lupus

• Psoriasis

• Migraine headaches

• Gout

• Polycystic ovaries

• Hirsutism (facial hair growth in women)

• Osteoporosis

• Pre-eclampsia

• Breast cancer treatment

• COVID spike protein infection or injection

If you fall into any of these categories, take the first step to good health and prevention, and request a complimentary Discovery Call with Dr. Backs.