February is American Heart Month, a time to raise awareness about heart disease and encourage people to take proactive steps toward better cardiovascular health. Heart disease remains one of the leading causes of illness, but it doesn’t affect everyone the same way. That’s why routine checkups and personalized care play such an important role in prevention. 

Heart Disease Can Look Different for Men and Women 

Heart disease affects both men and women, but it doesn’t always show up the same way. For women, risk factors like smoking or diabetes can have a bigger impact, and the symptoms aren’t always what you might expect. Classic warning signs like chest pain may be milder, different, or not present at all. 

Because these signs can be subtle, heart disease can sometimes go unnoticed. That’s why regular screenings and honest conversations with your healthcare provider matter. Knowing how heart disease can look different is an important step toward taking care of your heart for the long run. 

Why Routine Checkups Are Essential for Heart Health 

Scheduling routine medical appointments is one of the most effective ways to stay on top of your heart health. During a visit, your doctor can use validated screening tools and cardiovascular risk calculators to assess your personal risk and help you better understand what the numbers mean for you. 

Equally important, these appointments create space for meaningful conversations. Your provider will listen to your concerns, review your health history, and partner with you through shared decision-making to develop an individualized plan that supports your overall well-being. 

Personalized Heart Care Starts with a Conversation 

Heart health isn’t one-size-fits-all. Personalized care takes into account your lifestyle, family history, symptoms, and goals. Whether you’re managing existing risk factors or simply want reassurance, having a trusted primary care provider can make all the difference. 

American Heart Month is an ideal reminder to check in on your cardiovascular health and to take action before problems arise. If you live in Northern Virginia and have questions about your heart health, now is a great time to schedule a routine checkup with one of our providers. Preventive care, early detection, and individualized guidance can help protect your heart for years to come. 

This post was co-written by Vienna Family Medicine providers: Dr. Michael Kerrigan and Dr. Sachit Desai.