Blog Detail

February is Heart Health Awareness Month, a time dedicated to spreading awareness about cardiovascular health and the steps you can take to protect your heart. At Pelican Urgent Care, we’re committed to providing our patients with the knowledge and resources they need to maintain a healthy heart.

Why Heart Health Matters

Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the United States, affecting millions of people each year. While some risk factors like age and family history are beyond our control, many lifestyle changes can significantly reduce your risk. By taking preventive measures, you can help protect your heart and improve overall well-being.

Key Steps to a Healthier Heart

Here are some important ways you can take care of your heart:

Eat a Heart-Healthy Diet – Focus on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Reduce your intake of processed foods, excess sodium, and added sugars.

Stay Active – Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week, such as brisk walking, jogging, swimming, or cycling.

Monitor Your Blood Pressure & Cholesterol – High blood pressure and high cholesterol can increase the risk of heart disease. Regular check-ups can help you stay on track.

Quit Smoking – Smoking significantly increases the risk of heart disease. If you need help quitting, talk to a healthcare provider about resources and support.

Manage Stress – Chronic stress can take a toll on your heart. Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga to keep stress levels in check.

Get Quality Sleep – Poor sleep can contribute to high blood pressure and heart disease. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night.

Maintain a Healthy Weight – Excess weight puts added strain on the heart. A balanced diet and regular exercise can help maintain a healthy BMI.

Know the Signs of Heart Problems

Heart disease doesn’t always come with obvious symptoms. However, recognizing early warning signs can be life-saving. Seek medical attention if you experience:

Chest pain or discomfort

Shortness of breath

Dizziness or fainting

Pain in the arms, neck, jaw, or back

Unusual fatigue or nausea

Get Your Heart Checked at Pelican Urgent Care

Your heart health is important to us. While urgent care isn’t a substitute for emergency heart care, our providers can help monitor risk factors like high blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and weight management. If you have concerns about your heart health, we’re here to provide guidance and support.

This Heart Health Awareness Month, take the steps to protect your heart. Small changes today can lead to a healthier future.

For more information or to schedule a check-up, visit Pelican Urgent Care in Slidell, LA or Picayune, MS today!

Stay heart-smart and stay healthy!