Family History of Heart Problems…?

[Blossom4538]

Hi all,

So just wondering who has a family history of heart/aortic problems.

Years ago, my Nan and her brother passed away due to heart issues/attack.

Last year, my Dad suddenly passed away due to heart/aortic problems. He was only in his 60s.
It now transpires that my Aunty/his younger sister has a heart condition and has serious problems with her aorta, needing open heart surgery.

Obviously, quite a strong history of heart issues on my Dad’s side. Would a GP take me seriously if I spoke to them about my concerns for my own heart health and any potential future issues.
Obv appreciate boosters take priority currently.
Would u say it’s something to be cautious about or am I over worrying?

I’ve had palpitations in the past, but not for a long while. I’m 40yrs old.

Thanks

A GP would take you seriously, even if all they needed to do was reassure you and put your mind at rest.

However, It would be really helpful if you had the exact conditions because the advice, and any ongoing monitoring, if it was lifestyle related rather than genetic, may differ.

IME they would at the very least request blood tests, inc cholesterol, do weight, BP & pulse check. If it was a genetic issue it may involve an ECG & referral to cardiology.

My mother, myself and my dd all have a congenital heart defects. My cardiologist said right sided defects, which ours are, are more likely to run in families.
My mother had had a bicuspid aortic valve.

I have a strong family history. I developed a blood pressure problem after the birth of my 3rd child and after discussing with GP, he decided to put my on statins - as a preventative measure. I had full bloods and they calculated my risk which came out very low but the statins apparently reduce it further. (I was 40)

I am a cardiology secretary.
If you have a strong family history and any symptoms i.e palpitations the GP can refer you for an echocardiogram to check the structure of your heart and carry out an ECG. If all normal they’ll just recommend lifestyle modification I.e healthy diet, weight loss if needed, keep a good BP and cholesterol.