Know your numbers: why blood pressure and cholesterol matter for your heart

You’ve probably heard your doctor talk about “knowing your numbers.” Blood pressure and cholesterol are two key measurements that help your care team understand heart health and identify potential risks for cardiovascular disease over time.

These numbers often don’t cause noticeable symptoms when they’re elevated, which means changes in the heart and blood vessels can occur quietly. Understanding how blood pressure and cholesterol affect the heart is an important part of long term cardiovascular care.

This article explores why these numbers matter, featuring clinical perspective from Dr. Constantine Monzidelis, a cardiologist at Crystal Run Healthcare.

What does “knowing your numbers” mean?

When providers talk about knowing your numbers, they are typically referring to health measurements such as blood pressure and cholesterol levels. These numbers help your care team assess how well your heart and blood vessels are functioning and whether you may be at an increased risk of heart disease or stroke.

What’s considered a healthy range can vary from person to person, which is why providers look at blood pressure and cholesterol numbers in the context of your overall health.

High blood pressure and unhealthy cholesterol levels often develop without symptoms, which is why routine screenings during primary care visits play an important role in identifying concerns early.

Why blood pressure matters for heart health

Blood pressure measures how strongly blood pushes against the walls of your arteries. When blood pressure stays elevated over time, it can strain the heart and damage blood vessels, increasing the risk of heart attack, stroke, heart failure, and other cardiovascular conditions.

As a cardiologist, Dr. Monzidelis works closely with primary care providers and other specialists to support patients with conditions that affect heart health.

“I use my practice to complement primary care doctors and endocrinologists,” Dr. Monzidelis says. “We help patients with conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and cholesterol, which can lead to heart conditions over time.”

Addressing blood pressure as part of coordinated care is an important element of supporting long term heart health.

Why cholesterol plays a role in heart health

Cholesterol is a fatty substance in the blood. While the body needs some cholesterol to function, high levels, particularly low density lipoprotein (LDL), often referred to as “bad” cholesterol — can lead to plaque buildup inside the arteries. Over time, plaque can narrow or block blood flow and increase the risk of heart attack and stroke.

In his clinical work, Dr. Monzidelis sees how cholesterol affects more than just the heart.

“Cholesterol is one of the main factors that contribute to blockages in heart arteries and even the arteries in the legs,” he explains.

Keeping cholesterol levels within a healthy range supports better blood flow and may reduce strain on the cardiovascular system.

How blood pressure is connected to heart rhythm conditions

Blood pressure and cholesterol do not only affect the structure of the heart, but they can also influence heart rhythm. Uncontrolled high blood pressure is a known risk factor for atrial fibrillation (AFib), a common heart rhythm condition.

“Atrial fibrillation is notorious for patients who have uncontrolled high blood pressure,” Dr. Monzidelis notes.

Managing underlying conditions such as high blood pressure is an important part of reducing complications associated with heart rhythm disorders, like AFib.

A team based approach to heart care

Cardiology is a collaborative specialty, and Crystal Run’s multispecialty model allows providers to work together using a shared electronic medical record. This coordinated approach helps ensure that care plans are aligned across primary care, endocrinology, cardiology and any other specialists a patient see.

“We’re really a one stop shop,” Dr. Monzidelis says. “We’re able to communicate with primary care doctors and endocrinologists so everyone is working toward the same plan for the patient.”

This team based approach supports patients managing chronic conditions that may impact heart health.

What patients can expect from a cardiology visit

Clear communication and whole person care are priorities for Dr. Monzidelis during cardiology visits.

“I try to take a very expanded history,” he says. “I don’t want patients to feel like I have tunnel vision.”

He also emphasizes making sure patients leave their visits with clarity.

“I always review what we talked about,” Dr. Monzidelis added. “I don’t want anyone leaving more confused than when they walked in.”

Moving forward with confidence

Knowing your blood pressure and cholesterol numbers helps providers identify potential risks and guide appropriate care. Regular checkups, open conversations with your care team, and coordinated care across specialties can support better outcomes over time.

Understanding these numbers isn’t about fear — it’s about awareness, prevention, and confidence in your care.

Dr. Constantine Monzidelis is a cardiologist at Crystal Run Healthcare who cares for patients with a wide range of heart conditions, including chest pain, heart rhythm disorders, and cardiovascular disease. He works closely with primary care providers and specialists to support patients managing conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and cholesterol, which can affect long term heart health.

Dr. Monzidelis values a whole person approach to care and prioritizes clear, straightforward communication, so patients leave each visit understanding their condition and next steps.

American Heart Association. High blood pressure (hypertension). Last updated: August 14, 2025. Accessed: January 20, 2026.

American Heart Association. Cholesterol and heart health. Last updated: July 2024. Accessed: January 20, 2026.

National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. High blood pressure. Last updated: March 2024. Accessed: January 20, 2026.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. About atrial fibrillation. Last updated: May 15, 2024. Accessed: January 20, 2026.