An alarming 33 percent of Americans currently suffer from cardiovascular
disease. February is Heart Health Awareness Month and Methodist Hospital’s
Advanced Wound Healing Center, a member of the Healogics network, is working to spread awareness about
how cardiovascular diseases can affect the wound healing process. Cardiovascular
diseases such as coronary artery disease, peripheral artery disease, strokes,
arrhythmia, vascular disease and other issues with the heart and vessels
can cause blockages that obstruct the flow of blood needed for proper
wound healing.
Chronic wounds affect approximately 6.7 million people in the United States
and, if left untreated, an unhealed wound on the foot or leg can lead
to a diminished quality of life and possible amputation. As many as 82
percent of leg amputations are due to poor circulation of the affected limb.
The Advanced Wound Healing Center offers the following tips to live a heart
healthy life.
- Live an active lifestyle with 30 minutes of exercise on most days.
- Don’t smoke or use tobacco of any kind as it is one of the most significant
risk factors for developing heart disease.
- Eat a diet that is heart-healthy. This includes lots of fruits, vegetables,
whole grains, beans and other low-fat sources of protein.
- Maintain a healthy weight. Obesity can lead to high blood pressure, high
cholesterol and diabetes. All of these chronic conditions can lead to
heart disease.
- Ensure you get quality sleep by making it a priority in your life. Most
adults need seven to nine hours of sleep each night.
- Manage your stress in a healthy way with positive self-talk, using stress
stoppers, doing things you enjoy, and relaxing on a regular basis.
- See your healthcare provider for regular screenings. This includes blood
pressure, cholesterol and diabetes screenings.
- Take off your socks at your next checkup and speak up about any problems
with your legs or feet
If you or a loved one is living with a wound and cardiovascular disease,
contact the Advanced Wound Healing Center at Methodist Hospital at 270-631-2399.