When it comes to protecting your health, recognizing the early signs of heart and vein disease is critical. At Cross County Cardiology, our expert team helps patients every day who are living with symptoms they didn’t realize were linked to more serious cardiovascular or circulatory issues. These signs may be subtle or seem unrelated, but ignoring them could delay necessary treatment and impact your long-term well-being.
When it comes to protecting your heart, you may already be familiar with LDL cholesterol, blood pressure, and lifestyle habits. But there’s a lesser-known—and genetically inherited—risk factor that deserves your attention: Lipoprotein(a), also written as Lp(a) or “LP little a.”
At Cross County Cardiology, your heart health is our top priority. Today, we’re talking about heart failure—a common but often misunderstood condition that affects millions of Americans.
Menopause is a significant milestone in a woman’s life, bringing physical and hormonal changes that can impact overall health—including heart health. Many women don’t realize that heart disease risk increases after menopause, making it essential to adopt heart-healthy habits early.
Diabetes is more than just a blood sugar issue—it significantly impacts heart health. People with diabetes are at a much higher risk of developing heart disease, strokes, and high blood pressure, making cardiovascular care a crucial part of diabetes management. That’s where cardiologists step in. By working closely with patients, cardiologists help lower heart-related risks, manage complications, and improve overall well-being.
When it comes to our health, the fats we eat play a crucial role in how long and how well we live. A new study has found that butter, which is high in saturated fat, may increase the risk of early death, while plant-based oils—especially olive, soybean, and canola oil—can help lower the risk of heart disease and cancer-related deaths.
Scientists analyzed data from over 221,000 adults over 30+ years. They found that:
This means that small changes—like switching from butter to plant-based oils—could make a big difference in long-term health.
Plant-based oils contain healthy unsaturated fats that help:
✅ Lower bad cholesterol (LDL) and improve heart health
✅ Reduce inflammation, which can lower cancer risk
✅ Support brain function and overall well-being
On the other hand, butter is high in saturated fat, which can:
❌ Raise cholesterol levels, increasing heart disease risk
❌ Promote inflammation, leading to health issues
❌ Be linked to higher cancer-related deaths
You don’t have to give up all your favorite foods—just make small swaps!
Your daily choices matter. Substituting butter with plant-based oils can lower your risk of heart disease and cancer while supporting a longer, healthier life. At Cross County Cardiology, we’re here to help you make heart-smart choices. Your heart—and your future self—will thank you!
Need guidance on heart-healthy eating? Schedule a consultation with us today!
From the Education Team at Cross County Cardiology
At Cross County Cardiology, we believe in empowering patients with knowledge to take charge of their heart health. Diabetes is more than a blood sugar issue—it’s a major risk factor for heart disease. Understanding the connection between diabetes and heart health is key to staying ahead of potential complications.
At Cross County Cardiology, we often face the challenge of diagnosing symptoms that come and go, such as chest pains, irregular heartbeat, or breathing difficulties. These symptoms don’t always appear during routine electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) tests performed in a calm, resting state, which can make it harder to pinpoint the issue. That’s where stress tests come in.
The impact of COVID-19 goes beyond the lungs—it can also affect your heart. Research shows that the virus can cause heart problems like inflammation, irregular heartbeats, and blood clots, even in people with no history of heart disease. Understanding these risks and taking steps to protect your heart is important for your long-term health. Read more in this NY Times article.
