Lack of exercise, access to unhealthy foods and shaking up your regular routine can all lead to increased chances of heart disease during a pandemic. Most alarming, many are not seeking the essential, emergent heart care they need right now because of a fear of going to the hospital. Cardiologist Lyndon Box wants patients to know hospitals and clinics are safe and they should not hesitate to seek care.
“Unfortunately, we may be facing this pandemic for much longer. For patients with chronic heart conditions, it may not be safe to wait until it is over to see their doctor. We have taken steps to make coming to the clinic and hospital as safe as possible. We are also offering telehealth visits so patients can see me from the safety of their own home,” said Dr. Lyndon Box, Cardiologist, West Valley Medical Center.
Dr. Box says patients with more urgent problems should seek emergency care just like they would have before the pandemic. “Sadly, we have seen an increase in people dying at home with heart conditions because they were afraid to go to the hospital. The message is still the same: If you think you may be having a heart attack or stroke, call 911!”
Along with seeking immediate care, here are some other tips for staying heart healthy while staying at home during the pandemic:
Heart healthy tips:
- It's time to start exercising again. Even just walking, while practicing social distance, can be helpful. Consider taking advantage of exercise videos that you can use at home.
- We are finding that the patients who are presenting with the most advanced heart disease are the ones who've been the most sedentary.
- Be cautious about starting a high-intense workout regime. Seek medical advice before you begin.
- Eat a heart healthy diet and increase your intake of fruits and vegetables. Consider grocery or meal home-delivery services, if going out is a concern.
- Drink plenty of water and stay hydrated.
- Engage your family and friends through digital platforms so that you can stay connected to your support system.
Signs of heart attack:
Don't ignore these possible symptoms. Call 911 immediately if you or a loved one suspect that any of these symptoms could be a heart attack:
- Severe, persistent or recurring chest pain or tightness
- Pain that radiates outward
- Feeling short of breath, dizzy, faint, cold and clammy
- Rapid heartbeat
Heart attack symptoms more common in women:
- Extreme, unexpected fatigue
- Nausea
- Heartburn
Take our heart risk assessment to calculate your risk of developing cardiovascular disease and help prioritize care for your most harmful risk factors.
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