Dr. Fett

[miracle baby]

My Dad died at 52 from a massive heart attack,he also had heart disease and a triple bi-pass.What precautions should I be taking.And is the any link in ppcm and other heart disease.Am I at a higher risk than my other siblings because of ppcm.

[JAMESFETT]

Your PPCM does not place you at higher risks of coronary artery or other heart disease. Because your family history is positive for early coronary artery disease it is prudent to screen to make sure you do not have any inherited patterns for elevated cholesterol and triglycerides. After that, best precautions are to avoid smoking, maintain cardiovascular conditioning, avoid excessive overweight, control blood pressure, and prevent diabetes.

James

[miracle baby]

How do you prevent diabetes.And what is a good workout.Also what test would I need done.

[JAMESFETT]

Prevent or delay onset of diabetes by maintaining normal weight, active conditioning program, periodic check of A1C hemoglobin/blood glucose. Susan D is the expert on conditioning.

JD

[miracle baby]

Is there any certain test for heart disease to see if you're at risk.I plan on beating ppcm and I was just wondering about trying to prevent heart disease because my goal is to have the time to see Macy grow up.

[JAMESFETT]

It's all about reducing risks:

1)Anyone who smokes, stop smoking. It's one of the greatest risks of coronary artery heart disease.
2)Check your blood pressure. If you have high blood pressure, see your doctor.
3)Do blood tests for cholesterol and triglycerides; if not normal, see your doctor.
4)Maintain as close to ideal weight as possible.
5)Have an active conditioning/exercise program; ask your doctor about that.
6)Avoid diabetes or delay its onset; or if you have it, control the
A1C/glucose strictly.

James

[miracle baby]

Thanks alot.You're the greatest.

[melissamph]

If you are concerned about coronary artery disease ask for a calcium heart scan. It takes 10 mins but it is worth a lifetime of not worrying. Results can change of course over the years but it will let you know if you have build up of plaque in the arteries and veins! It is an excellent tool. It became popular in 2002 here but many insurance companies find it a waste of money and won't pay. I think it's great and give it to your self for a gift if you have to pay for it. It cost me $125 and the peace it brought me was and is priceless!