February is American Heart Month, and Tri-County Health Care wants you to take extra special care of your body’s hardest-working muscle. Use the month to focus on heart health and hypertension. Lower that sodium intake, get some exercise and educate yourself on just how important the heart is.
Feeling the pressure
The CDC has partnered with healthcare leaders across the country to spread awareness about hypertension. Hypertension or high blood pressure is caused by the increased pressure of blood against arterial walls. High blood pressure is classified at 130/80 mm Hg or higher. Stage 2 hypertension is 140/90 mm Hg.
This call for hypertension awareness was prompted by a call to action made by the Surgeon General. In his address, the Surgeon General explains that high blood pressure is a preventable risk factor in most people. By controlling high blood pressure, individuals can lower their risk of heart disease and stroke.
The call to action lays out a simple but direct plan of action:
- Goal 1: Make hypertension control a national priority.
- Goal 2: Ensure that the places where people live, learn, work, and play support hypertension control.
Goal 3: Optimize patient care for hypertension.
Do it for your heart!
Obesity, smoking, diabetes, poor diet are all factors in heart health and hypertension. February should be a jumpstart for healthier living. The first step should be meeting with a cardiologist to ensure your heart is in good working order. From there, change your eating habits. A simple change in diet can be the easiest way to curb high blood pressure. Reducing sodium and replacing junk food with fresh fruits and vegetables can vastly improve heart health. Also, making time for physical activity is important. The CDC recommends 150 minutes of physical activity each week. Get creative and find an activity you love. Heart health doesn’t need to involve going to the gym several times a week.
Cardiology expansion
Recently, Tri-County Health Care expanded its partnership with CentraCare Heart and Vascular Center. This expansion introduced increased coverage for cardiac services in Wadena. The cardiology department offers diagnostic testing like EKGs, Holter monitoring and vascular ultrasounds. Additionally, providers can also answer questions about complex heart-related procedures and provide consultation.
“The partnership between Tri-County Health Care and the CentraCare Heart and Vascular Center will elevate the level of cardiac care provided to the people of Northwest Minnesota. This collaboration will bring access to advanced cardiac care with seamless follow up close to home,” said Executive Director Phil Martin of CentraCare Heart and Vascular Center.
You should consult a cardiologist if you’re experiencing chest pain, high blood pressure, shortness of breath, palpitations, dizziness or have diabetes. Seeing a cardiologist can also be beneficial if you have a history of smoking, high cholesterol, or plan to start an exercise routine.
To schedule an appointment with the cardiologists in Wadena, call 218-631-7579.
