Are You Missing These 5 Silent Risk Factors for Heart Disease?

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in America. Sadly, one person dies every 34 seconds from the condition.

Yet, heart disease doesn’t always come with warning signs. Many people feel “fine” for years before a heart-related event occurs. That’s because some of the most dangerous risk factors develop quietly without obvious symptoms.

At Dr. Bamba's Health and Medical Center, Dr. N'Dama Bamba, MD, MPH, focuses on preventive care to identify these hidden risks early when they’re easiest to manage.

This month, in observance of American Heart Month, our team at Dr. Bamba’s Health and Medical Center wants to take a minute to highlight the five silent risk factors for heart disease.

1. High blood pressure

High blood pressure often causes no symptoms, which is why it’s called the “silent killer.” When your blood pressure is high, it damages your blood vessels and forces your heart to work harder. 

Even small increases in blood pressure matter. For every 20-point rise in the top number (systolic) or 10-point rise in the bottom number (diastolic), your risk of heart attack and stroke can double.

Regular blood pressure checks are non-negotiable, even if you feel well. It’s why we include them at every appointment and physical. Our team can quickly and painlessly check your blood pressure. You can also check your blood pressure at home or at pharmacy kiosks. 

2. Elevated cholesterol

High cholesterol doesn’t hurt, but it can quietly lead to plaque buildup in your arteries. This narrows your blood vessels and increases the risk of heart disease, especially when combined with other risk factors.

Routine lab testing helps identify unhealthy cholesterol levels before complications develop.

3. Insulin resistance or prediabetes

People with diabetes are twice as likely to have heart disease, but blood sugar issues can begin years before diabetes is diagnosed. 

Insulin resistance and prediabetes can increase inflammation and damage blood vessels. This can significantly raise your heart disease risk, even if you aren’t overweight.

The problem? An estimated 80% of the 98 million Americans with prediabetes don’t even know they have it.

4. Chronic inflammation

Chronic inflammation is a low-level immune response that stays switched on even when there’s no injury or infection. This type of low-grade, ongoing inflammation contributes to plaque buildup and artery damage. 

It often goes unnoticed, but it’s linked with many serious conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, certain cancers, and Parkinson’s disease.

Inflammation may be linked to lifestyle factors, chronic stress, poor sleep, or untreated medical conditions.

5. Sleep problems

A night of poor sleep leaves you exhausted in the morning, but the impacts don’t end there. Conditions like sleep apnea disrupt your oxygen levels while you sleep and strain your heart. 

Poor sleep quality from sleep apnea is also linked to high blood pressure, weight gain, increased risk of heart attack and strokes, and insulin resistance, yet many people remain undiagnosed.

Don’t miss these silent risk factors for heart disease

These risk factors don’t usually cause pain or obvious symptoms, but together, they can significantly increase your chances of developing heart disease. The earlier they’re identified, the easier they are to treat with lifestyle changes, medical care, or both.

During your exam, Dr. Bamba reviews your personal and family health history, checks your vital signs, and may order screenings such as cholesterol labs. 

Based on your risk factors, Dr. Bamba can create a personalized prevention plan that may include dietary changes, exercise recommendations, and medication when needed.

The good news is that these risk factors are often connected. When you improve one area of your health, others tend to improve as well. 

For example, losing weight to reduce inflammation can also help lower cholesterol and blood pressure. Making dietary changes to address prediabetes can positively impact blood sugar and blood pressure.

Take control of your heart health this February 

Concerned about your heart health? Schedule a visit with Dr. Bamba to assess your risk factors, get personalized guidance, and take proactive steps toward a healthy heart.

You can also call us directly at 410-412-8640.