SAVAHCS Veterans: Prioritize Your Heart Health This February
As American Heart Month 2025 begins, the Southern Arizona VA Health Care System (SAVAHCS) urges Veterans to prioritize their cardiovascular health. This annual observance aims to raise awareness about heart disease and promote heart-healthy lifestyles.
Heart disease remains the leading cause of death for men, women, and most racial and ethnic groups in the United States. Veterans, in particular, may face increased risks due to service-related factors and lifestyle habits.
Recognizing the warning signs of heart problems can be a matter of life and death. Vigilance is key when it comes to your cardiovascular health. “Typically, it's going to start with shortness of breath and fatigue,” said SAVAHCS Cardiologist Dr. Ji Eun Park.
If something feels off or wrong, it is important to get evaluated.
“Be on high alert for any chest discomfort, which may manifest as pain, pressure, or a squeezing sensation in the center of the chest,” said Cardiology Nurse Practitioner Shawn McKissick. “Not everyone with heart disease or issues will have the ‘classic’ symptoms. This is especially important for women, who have been shown to present with ‘non-classic’ symptoms.”
It's also important to note that heart-related pain isn't always confined to the chest; it can radiate to other parts of the upper body, including the arms, back, neck, jaw, or stomach.
Additionally, “seemingly unrelated symptoms such as nausea, lightheadedness, or cold sweats can be indicators of heart issues,” said SAVAHCS Cardiologist Dr. Ji Eun Park. “If you experience any combination of these symptoms, especially if they're sudden or severe, don't hesitate to seek immediate medical attention.”
Heart problems vary from person to person, and dependent on your activity level.
“If you're a 67-year-old marathon runner, it might just be that your marathon time went from five hours and 20 minutes to six hours, despite no change in your training no change in your diet weight gain,” said Park. “If you're mostly sedentary, sitting at your desk and watching YouTube, you may notice being short of breath when bring my groceries in from my car and you got to take a break for a minute or two after and down.”
To reduce your risk of heart disease, it's essential to adopt a proactive approach to your health. Start by scheduling regular check-ups with your healthcare provider to monitor vital indicators such as blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels. Embrace a heart-healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, fiber, and lean protein to nourish your body properly. Make physical activity a priority by aiming for at least 150 minutes of moderate intensity exercise each week, which can significantly improve your cardiovascular health. If you smoke, quitting is one of the most impactful steps you can take, as smoking substantially increases the risk of heart attack and stroke. Lastly, don't underestimate the importance of stress management; incorporate relaxation techniques into your daily routine and ensure you're getting adequate sleep to support your overall heart health.
SAVAHCS offers comprehensive cardiac care services to support your heart health. If you experience any concerning symptoms or want to discuss your cardiovascular risk factors, don't hesitate to reach out to your VA healthcare provider.
By staying informed and taking proactive steps, we can work together to reduce the impact of heart disease among our veteran community. Your heart matters – make it a priority this February and beyond.