Tips for Heart Wellness to Maintain Equilibrium this Festive Season
As the festive season approaches, it's a time for celebrations and perhaps a little indulgence - but cardiologist Dr. Antony Anandaraj emphasizes that the key to sustaining heart health is mindfulness. As the festive season approaches, it’s a time for celebrations and perhaps a little indulgence - but cardiologist Dr. Antony Anandaraj highlights that the key to preserving heart wellness is mindfulness. Iowa ranks 16th in the nation for heart disease mortality - with 176.3 deaths per 100,000 individuals in 2023 according to CDC statistics. Dr. Anandaraj, a cardiologist at UnityPoint St. Luke’s, elaborated that one way to manage your health during the festive season is to limit salt intake. In cases of heart-related illness, especially for those dealing with elevated blood pressure or heart failure, it is advisable to limit salt consumption to under two grams each day.. So, ration it,” Dr. Anandaraj advised. Aim to remain within that threshold to avoid heart failures and admissions to the hospital. . I want you to spend more time with family and not be in the hospital on Christmas Day.” Although a ‘White Christmas’ isn’t expected, Dr. Anandaraj cautions that individuals with heart issues should avoid shoveling snow. That activity can elevate blood pressure - leading to potential heart attacks. Instead, Dr. Anandaraj suggests taking a stroll after the holiday meal and gradually increasing to more vigorous activities in the spring. Another piece of advice from the doctor: be moderate with the eggnog. “Having a drink or two on Christmas Day shouldn't pose much harm; you’ve earned it, enjoy time with family, do have a good time. But if you consume an entire bottle of whiskey, it can put you at risk for various arrhythmias,” stated Dr. Anandaraj. Excessive drinking can trigger atrial fibrillation, causing the heart to race and the upper chambers to flutter. This condition is part of what is known as “holiday heart syndrome,” especially prevalent during Christmas. "By taking this approach, individuals with pre-existing blocked arteries are essentially undergoing a form of stress evaluation. This could transition a stable condition into a heart attack,” explained Dr. Anandaraj. Dr. Anandaraj also advises being attentive to the women in your family, as they may be less likely to report symptoms of chest pain or heart attacks. “Atypical symptoms must be taken very seriously because unfortunately, women often exhibit unusual signs of chest pain,” stated Dr. Anandaraj. “Mom, Grandma, we need to be more vigilant about them. I personally believe women are quite strong-willed; they don’t want to cause unnecessary worry. It’s holiday time and we don't want a hospitalization.” In summary, caring for relatives with heart conditions is essential for a safe and healthy Christmas. “It’s crucial to catch issues very early,” said Dr. Anandaraj. “The greatest adversary of heart attacks is time... When someone experiences a heart attack, they often delay seeking help, as some patients with conditions like diabetes may not experience classic symptoms of chest pain. So,They may consume a few antacid tablets and attempt to sleep it off. No. . It’s too late. Once you pass the six-hour threshold... the heart cells may have sustained irreversible damage.
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