At Knights Pharmacy in Cardiff, we are passionate about helping you prioritise your heart health. Heart disease remains a leading cause of mortality worldwide, but with the right knowledge and proactive steps, it is largely preventable. In this article, we will explore essential strategies for heart disease prevention in Cardiff and highlight the role Knights Pharmacy plays in supporting your journey towards a healthier heart.
Understanding Heart Disease
Around 11 per cent of men and 9 per cent of women in the UK have been diagnosed with some form of heart or circulatory disease.
The term “heart disease” refers to a broad range of conditions that compromise the structure and operation of the heart. Your health may be significantly impacted by these conditions, which include arrhythmias, heart failure, and coronary artery disease. However, you can significantly lower your risk of developing heart disease by being aware of the risk factors and taking preventative measures. Cardiff’s Knights Pharmacy is committed to educating the public and offering tools to support heart health protection.
What Symptoms Should I Look Out For?
These are some of the symptoms to watch out for:
- Chest Pain – You should seek medical (999) advice as soon as possible if you have chest pain and feel extremely unwell, even if the symptoms only occur when you are exerting yourself.
- Feeling Sick – If you are experiencing severe chest pain even while you are just sitting around doing nothing and you are also feeling sick, it’s time to call an ambulance.
- Stomach Pain or Indigestion – An indigestion-like pain or burning sensation in your stomach or chest could indicate a heart attack or other related heart condition.
- Feeling Sweaty – It’s normal to work up a sweat after working out at the gym or on a particularly hot day. However, experiencing both heat and clammyness as well as chest pains should prompt you to dial 999.
- Leg Pain – It may be worthwhile to see your doctor if you experience gripping or cramping in your calves when you walk because that could be a sign of PAD (peripheral arterial disease).
- Arm Pain – Arm pain can indicate a heart attack even though you may not normally associate it with your heart.
- A Jaw or Back Pain – It is possible for back or jaw pain to be experienced during a heart attack. Once more, if it persists, dial 999 and request an ambulance.
- Extreme Fatigue – Constant fatigue can be a sign of various health issues, including heart failure.
Lifestyle Changes
Lifestyle modifications play an important role in preventing heart disease. Regular physical activity, such as walking or cycling, strengthens the heart and improves cardiovascular health.
Adopting a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins while minimising processed foods and excessive salt intake can significantly lower your risk.
Know Your Numbers
Monitoring key health indicators is vital for heart disease prevention. Regular blood pressure checks, cholesterol screenings, and diabetes management are essential components of maintaining heart health.
Knights Pharmacy in Cardiff provides convenient access to accurate screenings and professional advice on managing these risk factors. By staying informed and proactive, you can take control of your cardiovascular well-being and reduce the risk of heart disease.
Medication Management
In some cases, medication may be necessary to manage specific risk factors or existing conditions associated with heart disease. Our experienced pharmacists at Knights Pharmacy work closely with your healthcare provider to ensure proper medication management. We provide comprehensive information on medications, including usage instructions and potential side effects. With our support, you can navigate the complexities of medication management and improve your heart health effectively.
How We Can Help
Knights Pharmacy in Cardiff is your dedicated partner in heart disease prevention. By adopting lifestyle modifications, monitoring your health indicators, and leveraging community resources, you can reduce the risk of heart disease and enhance your overall well-being.
Visit Knights Pharmacy today to access personalised guidance, expert advice, and a wealth of resources for maintaining a healthy heart. Together, let’s prioritise heart health in Cardiff.
This blog was created on behalf of Knights Pharmacy by Pharmacy Mentor.
