How to Prevent Heart Disease

Did you know that approximately every 33 seconds someone dies from heart disease and that it is the leading cause of death in both men and women?

Heart disease, or cardiovascular disease, refers to the many serious conditions that affect the heart, aortic valves or blood vessels, like blocked arteries, arrhythmias, and structural abnormalities. Millions of Americans suffer from heart disease, and if left untreated, it can lead to fatal heart attacks or debilitating strokes.

It could also lead to vascular issues and deep venous disorders which can be serious and painful, like varicose veins, DVT (deep vein thrombosis), and blood clots.

Making smart choices and leading an active life can help encourage good circulation, healthy blood flow and hopefully safeguard you from heart disease and its severe consequences.

In honor of American Heart Month, here are five tips that our team of board-certified vascular surgeons and vein specialists recommend for a healthier heart:

Five Tips for Heart Disease Prevention

1. Control your blood pressure and cholesterol levels. As both are major risk factors for heart disease, monitor them regularly and take actions or medications as directed by your physician to help levels trend in the right direction.
2. Maintain a healthy weight through a well-balanced diet and exercise. Aim for a diet full of brightly colored fruits and vegetables, lean proteins and whole grains, and avoid excess sodium and saturated fats. Also try to get in at least 30 minutes of physical activity for five days a week, or more.
3. Quit smoking and limit alcohol consumption. Both cigarette smoke and too much alcohol can elevate blood pressure and damage blood vessels (as well as many other internal organs) which can negatively impact blood pressure.
4. Manage stress. Stress is known to be a trigger for high blood pressure and heart attacks. Make sure to get plenty of sleep and exercise and take time frequently to focus on hobbies and activities that bring you respite and joy.
5. Control your diabetes. Diabetics have a higher risk of heart disease as high blood glucose levels can damage blood vessels and affect blood pressure. Visit with your endocrinologist regularly to stay on top of your condition and treatment plan which may include insulin or other medications to stabilize blood sugar.

Finally, know your family’s history for heart disease as that could be a key indicator of you developing it. Even if you are leading a healthy lifestyle but you’ve had family members affected by heart disease, heart attack, or stroke, it is wise to get screened by a cardiologist.

If you are experiencing symptoms of a venous disorder, like varicose veins, due to poor circulation which could be a sign of heart disease, please reach out to us for a consultation.

Our vein experts are trained vascular surgeons who can treat underlying vascular and circulatory conditions as well as cosmetic concerns associated with varicose veins. We offer a variety of convenient and effective varicose vein treatment options in our clinics in Austin, Georgetown, and Kyle.

Contact VeinSolutions for Your Consultation Today

Our board-certified vascular surgeons and vein specialists are skilled in both cosmetic and therapeutic treatments for varicose veins while dedicated to enhancing your overall circulatory health.

To schedule an appointment with a vein specialist in Austin, please contact us here or call 512.452.VEIN (8346), or 512.501.4287 for our clinic in Georgetown, and 512.651.8420 for Kyle.

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