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Reducing Your Risk for a Heart Attack

By Sharon Bryant
Geriatric Registered Nurse

A heart attack is defined as permanent damage to the heart muscle caused by a lack of blood supply to the heart for an extended time period. The severity of damage varies from normal, mild, to severe. There are natural preventive steps you can take to help reduce your risk.

• Watch your weight- Obesity is a major risk factor (consult your doctor before starting a new exercise program)

• Eat Healthy Foods- Atherosclerosis, a primary cause of heart attack, contributed from foods high in saturated fat and cholesterol.

• Don't use tobacco- It's the No. 1 preventable cause of serious illness such as heart disease, stroke, lung cancer and emphysema.

• Avoid excess alcohol- One or two drinks a day may help increase "good" HDL cholesterol, but heavy drinking can contribute to high blood pressure, heart disease and stroke.

Most importantly, talk to your doctor about your concerns. Your doctor can help to individualize a plan for you to reduce your risk for a heart attack based upon your current health and activity level. If you would like more information on maintaining optimal wellness, call Sharon Bryant, RN, at Senior Solutions at (314) 726-5766.

St. Andrew's Senior Solutions helps to serve the needs of older adults and their families in the comfort of their home, including housekeeping, transportation, meal preparation, personal care, nursing services and companionship. 

For more information, please call (314) 726-5766.

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