In honor of Heart Month this February, AdventHealth Central Texas is dedicated to raising awareness about heart health and encouraging everyone to take proactive steps to protect their hearts. Heart disease remains a leading cause of health concerns worldwide, and understanding how to safeguard your heart is more important than ever.
Several critical risk factors for heart disease have been identified, including smoking, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, a sedentary lifestyle, diabetes, and family history. To mitigate these risks, it is recommended to cease smoking, adopt a healthy diet (avoiding high salt and fat), engage in regular exercise, and maintain appropriate follow-ups with your healthcare provider to manage these risk factors effectively. As James Lampley, Director of the Cardiology Cath Lab, advises, "Stopping smoking and eating a healthy diet are two of the most impactful changes you can make for your heart health."
It is important to be vigilant for symptoms such as fatigue, shortness of breath, leg swelling that cannot be attributed to another cause, chest pain, heart palpitations (those "skipped" heartbeats you can feel in your chest), and unexplained sweating or nausea. Should you experience any of these symptoms, it is imperative to seek medical attention promptly. "Recognizing the signs early can make a significant difference in treatment outcomes," Lampley emphasizes.
The frequency of heart health evaluations should be based on the recommendations of your primary care provider. Essential tests may include blood work, an ECG, and potentially an ultrasound of the heart (echocardiogram). "Regular check-ups are crucial for early detection and management of heart conditions," Lampley notes.
"Good cholesterol" (HDL) assists the body in removing "bad cholesterol" (LDL) from the bloodstream. LDL is the primary contributor to cholesterol buildup in the arteries, which can lead to heart disease. To enhance heart health, it is suggested to cease smoking if you do, increase regular physical activity, and consume a diet low in fat and salt.
Taking care of your heart is not just a one-time effort but a lifelong commitment. By understanding the risk factors, recognizing the symptoms, and making informed lifestyle choices, you can significantly reduce your chances of heart disease. Regular check-ups and staying informed about the latest advancements in heart health technology, like the new Vascular Ultrasound Machine at AdventHealth Central Texas, can also play a crucial role in maintaining your heart's well-being.
While there is no significant difference between the options, having more options facilitates the accommodation of diagnostic tests sooner, thereby providing faster overall care. The primary advantage of the new machine is its ability to better serve the community by providing tests in a more timely manner, which in turn allows for expedited treatment.
Remember, your heart is at the core of your overall health. This Heart Month, take the opportunity to prioritize your heart health and make the necessary changes to ensure a long, healthy, and fulfilling life. Your heart will thank you for it.
Join us for the Heart to Heart Health Screenings on February 13 to get a free check-up from our cardiac care team. If you can't make it to the event, you can always schedule an appointment with our Heart and Vascular Center at AdventHealth Central Texas by calling
Call254-519-8578 or visit our website at www.adventhealthcentraltexas.com
Your heart health is our priority.
FREE HEART HEALTH SCREENINGS
In honor of Heart Month, AdventHealth Central Texas is excited to announce the Heart-to-Heart event, a free community health screening event aimed at promoting heart health and wellness.
Event Details:
- Where: Killeen Seventh Day Adventist Church, 4700 E Rancier Ave, Killeen, TX 76543
- When: Thursday, February 13, 2025
- Time: 4:30pm-7 pm
- Cost: Free to the community
