Newsworthy

Is your heart healthy?

With February being American Heart Month, it’s time to take a look at our hearts and make sure we are doing what we can to keep that blood-pumping muscle as healthy as possible! That’s why we gathered insider information from one of Stormont Vail Health’s Manhattan cardiology experts, Brett Dawes, APRN, NP-C.

Brett Dawes, APRN, NP-C., Stormont Vail Health Manhattan Campus

Q: What are the most commonly seen heart health conditions at Stormont Vail?

A: “Being part of the Stormont Vail cardiology team we get to see and treat a variety of cardiology issues such as coronary artery disease, carotid artery disease, peripheral vascular disease, valvular heart disease, and arrhythmias in addition to hypertension and hyperlipidemia – just to name a few.”

Q: What tips do you have for anyone trying to be conscious of their heart health?

A: “The best strategies to prevent heart disease would be to avoid tobacco products. Additionally, increasing regular daily physical activity can help lower the risk of heart disease along with following a heart-healthy diet and limiting your intake of salt, sugar, saturated fats, and trans fats. Limiting alcohol helps too and of course, regular follow-ups.”

Q: What types of treatment options are available for patients at Stormont Vail?

A: “There can be several types of treatments or solutions depending on what type of issues need to be addressed. This can be something such as medications to additional non-invasive testing with ultrasound or cardiac monitors. Our cardiologists can complete cardiac catheterization for CAD or placement of pacemakers or defibrillators in addition to the subspecialty cardiologists such as structural heart clinic for valve repair or electrophysiologist for treatment of arrhythmias. It just really depends on the findings however our cardiology team is set up to treat a variety of cardiology issues.”

Q: What is the best part about working on the Stormont Vail cardiology team?

A: “Things I really enjoy about being on the cardiology team are being able to see and treat a variety of cardiology issues while also getting to know our patients and their stories. We have a great group of cardiologists and work with a team approach.”

Are you ready to begin your journey to a happier and healthier heart? Try this 10 minute at-home workout from the American Heart Association to begin getting the most out of your heart!

Don’t forget to celebrate Cardiovascular Professionals Week by thanking anyone you know who devotes their time to keeping our blood-pumping pals doing the best job.