Take Care of Your Heart During Heart Month!

The heart is essential to keeping the body functioning. Keeping it running at its best is vitally important for all aspects of your health.

In recognition of Heart Month, our team of in-home care providers at Qualicare North York wants to share some insight about how to protect your heart now and in the future.

Are You At Risk for a Heart Attack?

A heart attack occurs when blood flow to your heart is blocked. When you think of your heart health, this is probably the condition you think of first. 

When a heart attack occurs, minutes matter. If you or someone you know experience symptoms, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms may include:

• Squeezing or aching sensation in your chest 
• Nausea
• Heartburn
• Abdominal pain
• Shortness of breath
• Cold sweat
• Fatigue
• Lightheadedness
• Sudden dizziness

Curious what might put you at an increased risk of heart attack? Factors such as:

• Increased age
• Smoking
• High blood pressure and/or cholesterol
• Physical inactivity
• Obesity
• Diabetes
• Stress

Protecting Your Heart

While some of those risk factors, such as age, can’t be changed, the lifestyle-related habits can be changed. Healthy lifestyle habits can help prevent a heart attack.

First, if you are a current smoker, do what you can to stop smoking sooner rather than later. Smoking cessation is essential to protect your heart health, since smoking damages the lining of the arteries and the amount of oxygen in your blood.

Second, you want to make sure you are exercising regularly. Aim to get at least 30 minutes of physical activity on most days of the week. You don’t have to get it all at once, though; it can be broken up into smaller segments.

Third, eat a balanced diet that’s high in fresh foods and low in sodium, saturated fat and added sugar. Fill your plate with fruits and veggies, whole grains, lean protein, and low-fat dairy.

Are you looking for additional care for your loved one? Contact the in-home care providers at Qualicare North York today to learn how we can help!