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We’re all looking forward to a fresh start in 2021. With approved vaccines in distribution, we can see a light on the horizon. However, the COVID-19 pandemic did not disappear with the new year. That’s why taking care of our health — especially our hearts — is more important than ever.
Heart disease is the number one killer of both men and women, but at least 80 percent of cardiac events are preventable. Make your New Year’s resolution to take care of your heart, and be sure to keep it. With a renewed focus on self-care, now is the perfect time to take control by implementing heart-healthy practices in your life.
See your doctor regularly
Some patients may think it is safer to skip appointments or avoid the hospital during COVID-19, but this can be a mistake. Even during a pandemic, it is crucial to keep scheduled appointments and see your physician for regular checkups or when symptoms arise. If you experience potentially cardiac symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pain or dizziness, call your doctor. If these symptoms seem acute or you are significantly distressed, it may even be appropriate to come to the emergency department for evaluation.
Patients who come to the hospital earlier can catch problems sooner, which can potentially save their lives. Know that our offices and hospitals are taking all the necessary precautions to keep patients safe: Separate intake and care areas, waiting room distancing, staff screening, ongoing use of personal protective equipment, and extensive safety and sanitation protocols, are in place to ensure all patients are cared for in a protected environment. Many patients are screened upon arrival to the hospital so that COVID-19 positive patients are appropriately isolated in special units, with a goal of providing those patients the care they need to get better, while also preventing spread to other patients.
Commit to a healthy diet
The way you eat and drink can have a big impact on your heart. For example, a new study published in the European Heart Journal found that people who drink even a modest amount of alcohol also have increased risk of a common heart rhythm condition known as atrial fibrillation, or AFib. Just one glass of wine or small beer a day led to a 16-percent higher risk of developing the heart condition. This risk increases sharply with higher amounts of alcohol. That’s not to say you can’t enjoy a glass of wine at the end of a long day, but remember, everything in moderation. I always counsel patients that some alcohol can be okay, but the less the better. Keeping intake to one drink per day is recommended and try to never exceed two drinks.
Learn how to relax and relieve stress
The past year may have caused more stress than most of us have experienced in our lives. Unfortunately, this also spells trouble for our hearts. Stress is linked to heart disease, so finding ways to cope is a must.
The key is to find what makes you feel good and make it a practice. Stress-reducing hobbies like gardening, reading a book, playing with pets or listening to music can have significant positive impacts on your heart. Yoga, meditation and deep breathing exercises are great stress-busting activities too. Research shows that people who exercise report fewer days of bad mental health. Even a simple walk can work wonders for your stress levels and your heart.
Be safe and take control of your heart health
The new year brings a great opportunity to reprioritize your health, but remember, there are no quick fixes. Continue following good public safety practices, including mask-wearing, frequent hand-washing, and appropriate social distancing. When it comes to improving heart health, work with your doctor to create a plan you can stick to. Your heart will thank you for it.
Dr. Anthony Magnano is a Ponte Vedra resident and cardiologist at Ascension St. Vincent’s Riverside. For more information on Dr. Magnano and his specialty treating Atrial fibrillation, visit Healthcare.ascension.org.
