Have a Healthy Heart

Valentine’s Day may have just passed, but when it comes to the people we love, having a healthy heart is always a priority.

Many of the risk factors for heart disease can be managed or even eliminated through simple lifestyle changes. By taking proactive steps, you can significantly reduce your risk and improve your overall well-being.

Here are some controllable risk factors for heart disease and how to address them:

1. Smoking:  Smoking doubles the risk of heart disease compared to non-smokers. Quitting smoking significantly lowers the risk of a heart attack and improves overall heart health.
2. High Blood Pressure: High blood pressure is a silent but serious threat to heart health. You can manage it by maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, reducing sodium intake, and following your doctor’s advice, including taking prescribed medications if needed. Small changes can make a big difference.
3. Family history: If heart disease, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol runs in your family, it’s crucial to be proactive. Schedule regular check-ups with your healthcare provider to monitor your heart health and catch potential issues early.
4. Weight Management: Carrying excess weight puts extra strain on your heart. Aim to maintain a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular physical activity. Even modest weight loss can have a significant impact on reducing your risk of heart disease.
5. Lack of physical activity: Staying active is one of the best ways to protect your heart. Find activities you enjoy, whether it’s walking, swimming, or dancing, and make them a regular part of your routine.
6. Stress: Chronic stress can take a toll on your heart. Incorporate stress-reducing practices like exercise, meditation, deep breathing, or yoga into your daily life.

By addressing controllable risk factors, we can help protect our heart health and the health of our loved ones. Taking action on these risk factors allows you to make significant strides toward a healthier heart and a longer, happier life with those you care about. Remember, it’s never too late to start making positive changes—your heart will thank you!

Now that you’re aware of the controllable risk factors for heart disease, it’s important to recognize the warning signs. Listening to your body can make all the difference in catching potential issues early and seeking timely care.

Here are the key warning signs of heart disease to watch for:

• Early Symptoms: Leg cramps that go away with rest, dizziness, or chest pain during physical activity or stress.
• Chest Discomfort: Pain or pressure lasting more than a few minutes or recurring.
• Pain in Other Areas: Discomfort in one or both arms, jaw, back, neck, or stomach.
• Shortness of Breath: Difficulty breathing, especially with exertion.
• Additional Symptoms: Cold sweats, nausea, dizziness, or lightheadedness. People with diabetes may experience mild or no symptoms.

It’s important to note that symptoms can vary between individuals. Men are more likely to experience chest pain or discomfort while women may experience additional symptoms, including shortness of breath, nausea/vomiting, and discomfort in the back or jaw.

Many people are surprised to learn that physical therapy plays an important role in recovery after a heart attack.

Physical therapists are trained to address a variety of conditions, including heart disease and recovery from heart attacks. With our expert guidance, you can follow a personalized exercise program that promotes a heart-healthy lifestyle. We will design customized exercise programs for individuals of all ages, ensuring safety and effectiveness. For those aged 65 and older, physical therapy can be especially beneficial. It provides a safe environment to learn how to exercise within a healthy range, promoting a stronger heart and better overall health.

When you work with us, we take the time to:

• ​Review your medical history.
• Assess your physical abilities.
• Develop a program that includes stretching, functional exercises, and low-intensity aerobics to help you regain strength and confidence.

Don’t wait to take control of your health. Whether you’re recovering from a heart-related event or looking to prevent one, physical therapy can be a game-changer. Call us now to schedule your consultation and start your journey toward a stronger, healthier heart.