Heart Month Q & A

Welcome to CHI St. Luke’s Health - Performance Medicine's Heart Month Q & A! In this comprehensive guide, we'll provide detailed answers to the most frequently asked questions about heart health and care. Our team of experts at CHI St. Luke’s Health - Performance Medicine has prepared this resource to help you stay informed and take better care of your heart. Let's dive right in!

Why is Heart Month Important?

Heart Month is dedicated to raising awareness about cardiovascular health and promoting healthy lifestyle choices to prevent heart disease. It serves as a reminder for individuals to take proactive steps in maintaining a strong and healthy heart.

The Importance of Regular Heart Check-ups

Regular check-ups are crucial for maintaining cardiovascular health. Visiting your healthcare provider for routine heart assessments allows for early detection and intervention, reducing the risk of heart disease. At CHI St. Luke’s Health - Performance Medicine, our experienced cardiologists perform comprehensive heart evaluations, including:

• Electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG)
• Echocardiogram
• Stress Echocardiogram
• Cardiac MRI
• Coronary Angiography
• And more!

Common Heart Health Concerns

1. High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a prevalent risk factor for heart disease. It's important to monitor your blood pressure regularly and follow medical advice to manage it effectively. Lifestyle modifications, such as a healthy diet, regular exercise, and stress reduction techniques, can significantly impact blood pressure levels.

2. High Cholesterol

Elevated cholesterol levels can increase the risk of heart disease. Making dietary adjustments, exercising regularly, and taking prescribed medications, when necessary, can help maintain healthy cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart-related problems.

3. Obesity

Obesity is strongly linked to heart disease and other chronic conditions. Implementing a well-balanced diet, engaging in regular physical activity, and seeking professional guidance from our experts at CHI St. Luke’s Health - Performance Medicine can assist in managing and preventing obesity-related health issues.

How to Promote Heart Health

Improving and maintaining heart health requires adopting a holistic approach. Here are some valuable tips from our team:

1. Eat a Heart-Healthy Diet

Aim for a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats. Limit processed foods, saturated fats, and refined sugars. This will provide essential nutrients while reducing the risk of heart disease.

2. Stay Physically Active

Engage in regular exercise, such as brisk walking, cycling, or swimming, for at least 150 minutes per week. Regular physical activity strengthens the heart, improves circulation, and promotes overall cardiovascular health.

3. Manage Stress Levels

Prolonged stress can negatively impact heart health. Incorporate stress management techniques like deep breathing exercises, meditation, or engaging in hobbies to promote relaxation and overall wellbeing.

4. Quit Smoking

Smoking is a major risk factor for heart disease. Seek support and guidance to quit smoking for good, and experience significant improvements in heart health and overall quality of life.

When to Seek Medical Help?

If you experience any concerning symptoms, don't hesitate to seek medical help. Some common warning signs of heart disease include:

• Chest pain or discomfort
• Shortness of breath
• Irregular heartbeat
• Dizziness or fainting
• Swelling in the legs, ankles, or feet
• Extreme fatigue

It's essential not to ignore these symptoms, as they could indicate an underlying heart condition that requires prompt medical attention.

Conclusion

Thank you for exploring our Heart Month Q & A. We hope this comprehensive guide has provided you with valuable insights into heart health and care. At CHI St. Luke’s Health - Performance Medicine, we are committed to your wellbeing and are here to support you on your journey to a healthy heart. For more information or to schedule a heart check-up, contact our expert team today. Stay heart-healthy!