Roadmap to a Healthy Heart

Imagine life as a road trip, with a healthy heart being one of your key destinations. Thanks to advances in heart health and medical care, the road to heart disease prevention is clearer than ever. At Fort Healthcare, we’re here to guide you every step of the way toward better cardiovascular health.

Follow the Road Signs for Heart Health

Heart disease remains the number one health threat in the U.S., but it’s not just a risk for older adults—heart disease can affect anyone, regardless of age. To help keep you on track, here are a few key “road signs” to guide you:

Go!

• Get Moving: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity each week. If you can only manage a few minutes at a time, that’s still a step in the right direction!
• Fuel Your Heart: Eat heart-healthy fish like salmon, bluefin tuna, or mackerel at least twice a week to give your heart the nutrients it needs.

Caution!

• Reduce Fats: Lower your LDL (bad) cholesterol by cutting back on saturated and trans fats in your diet.
• Watch Your Salt: Limit sodium intake to no more than 1 teaspoon per day to protect your heart.

Stop!

• Quit Smoking: If you smoke, it’s time to quit. Talk to your Fort Healthcare provider about nicotine replacement, counseling, and medications that can help you. With time, your risk for heart disease can become similar to that of a nonsmoker.

Stay Alert: Recognizing Heart Attack Symptoms

Just as you need quick reflexes when driving, you must be alert to the early signs of a heart attack. Symptoms can vary but may include:

• Chest discomfort (pressure, fullness, squeezing, or pain)
• Pain in one or both arms, back, neck, jaw, or stomach
• Shortness of breath
• Lightheadedness
• Cold sweat
• Unexplained fatigue
• Nausea or vomiting

If you think you’re experiencing a heart attack, dial 911 immediately. Time is crucial when it comes to receiving life-saving treatment.

Don’t Skip Tune-Ups: Heart Health Checkups

At your next doctor’s appointment, make sure to ask about your heart health. Here are some tests to discuss with your Fort Healthcare provider:

• Blood pressure
• Cholesterol levels
• Weight/body mass index (BMI)
• Waist circumference
• Blood glucose levels

Talk through your results with your provider to understand your risks and create a personalized plan for managing your heart health. With the support of Fort Healthcare’s primary care and cardiology teams, you can take charge of your cardiovascular wellness.

Together, we’ll help you stay on the road to a healthier heart.