February is Heart Health Awareness Month and a great time to think about your heart health.
I see patients every day that have heart disease. Heart Disease can affect everyone, and what’s alarming, is that many who do experience heart attacks do so without the obvious warning signs. That's why screening, education, and early detection matter.
If you have been putting off your annual physical, make the appointment today!
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Pictured in red: Cassie Short, PA-C, Associate Medical Director, Fitchburg
During your annual physical, as a primary care provider I screen for things like high blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar, and more. One of my priorities is to help my patients better understand their numbers and how making lifestyles changes can reduce the risk of heart disease.
What factors can increase the risk of heart disease and heart attacks?
- Smoking/Tobacco Use/Vaping
- High Blood Pressure & High Cholesterol
- Diabetes & High Blood Sugar
- Lack of Physical Activity
- Consuming fatty or processed meats
- Unhealthy eating habits & being overweight
- Excessive alcohol use
- Chronic stress or poor sleep
- History of heart disease
- Increasing age
Some of these factors may be out of your control, but when I talk with patients, I always remind them that there are factors that you can control.
Even small, consistent healthy lifestyle changes, really do add up.
We're here to take great care of you! Schedule your annual exam today!
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Massachusetts Heart Association