By Amy Hammer, Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation
As a Certified Exercise Physiologist in our Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation department, I have the privilege of helping people rebuild their lives after serious cardiovascular events like heart attacks and strokes. These moments can be life-altering, but they can also be powerful turning points.
Heart disease is still the number one cause of death, and I see its impact every day on individuals and families. What I love most about working in Cardiac Rehabilitation is helping people get stronger and regain strength. With the right support and helping put practices in place, they’re able to look forward to enjoying more life.
Do you know if you’re at increased risk of having a heart attack or stroke? Most people don’t realize they’re at risk until something serious happens to their health. The good news? Up to 80 percent of cardiac events are preventable. Paying attention to your heart health now can give you the time and opportunity to make changes that truly matter.
So where do you start? Here are three things to do to reduce your risk and show your heart some love.
1. Know your numbers. Schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider to check your blood pressure, cholesterol, and glucose levels. These numbers tell an important story about your heart health. It’s important to know your risk factors and how to decrease them through lifestyle changes, medication, or both.
2. Take charge of your health. Stop smoking. Be physically active. Eat healthy. Lose weight if needed. I know these changes aren’t easy, but they are always worth the effort, especially when you consider what’s at stake. Even small steps are helpful.
3. Be informed and be an influence. Healthy habits are contagious. Make healthy food choices for yourself and your family. Encourage those close to you to schedule an annual checkup. Parents, start early by teaching your kids the benefits of good nutrition and physical activity. These lessons can last a lifetime.
This year, Friday, February 6, is the American Heart Association’s Go Red Day. Wearing red on this day is a simple but powerful way to raise awareness of heart disease and remind ourselves, and each other, of the importance of heart health, understanding our risks and taking steps to reduce them.
If it’s been more than a year since you last saw your primary care provider, consider this your reminder! A checkup to review your blood pressure, cholesterol, and glucose, and knowing “your numbers”, is one of the most empowering gifts you can give yourself. Encourage those you care about to do the same. Sometimes a loving nudge is the best way to say I love you or just to show you care.
If you’re looking for a primary care provider, please call Winona Health at 507.457.7648 or visit winonahealth.org/primarycare to learn about your options. I know that any one of my fellow Winona Health caregivers will be an excellent resource in helping you take care of yourself.
So show yourself some love. Schedule that appointment. And I hope you’ll join me in wearing red on Friday, February 6, to support heart health in our community.
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