As we greet spring, it’s easy to get caught up in our every day lives – planting the garden, taking trips to visit loved ones, and getting through that tough spring cleaning. But with more activity, comes an even greater responsibility to pay attention to our heart health. At ameriCARE, we want you to make the most out of this beautiful weather and to have an incredible spring and summer, but we want you to do it safely!

Cardiovascular Disease is On the Rise

According to the American Heart Association (AHA), cardiovascular disease now affects nearly half of all Americans. Recent discoveries in the relationship between blood pressure and cardiovascular disease show that once accepted blood pressure rates are now linked with greater instances of heart disease. “High blood pressure – also known as hypertension – can lead to heart attack, heart failure and stroke.” The AHA explains. (American Heart Association)

“We’re becoming more and more aware of the importance of high blood pressure. Levels we used to think were normal we now associate with worse outcomes, and treating them makes a big difference,” says Dr. Emelia J. Benjamin, a professor of cardiology at Boston University. (American Heart Association)

The single best way to identify cardiovascular disease and create an action plan to address it is to visit your primary care physician regularly. Participate in your yearly physical, make follow up appointments with specialists as suggested, and have your blood work done as recommended.

Monitoring Your Heart Health From Home

While your first stop should be with your doctor, there are signs and symptoms you can look for while at home. Check out our article, Be Aware of These Six Signs of Heart Disease to learn more about the warning signs. Join ameriCARE as we dive deeper into angina, fatigue, nausea & indigestion, shortness of breath, swollen feet, and irregular heartbeat. If you notice any of these symptoms, please contact your doctor immediately.

Getting Help Fighting Heart Disease

At ameriCARE, we can connect you with experienced, vetted in-home care professionals in your area to help you make the lifestyle changes you need to battle heart disease. Our in-home caregivers can help with medication management, appointment transportation, nutrition planning, and more. If you’ve been diagnosed with cardiovascular disease or are recovering from a heart-related procedure, contact ameriCARE today to get the help you deserve!