Heart Health Close to Home

It might be cold outside, but it’s the perfect time to give your heart some warm, well-deserved attention. February is heart health awareness month!

Across Canada, heart disease remains one of the leading causes of death. In fact, heart disease and stroke take a life every five minutes in Canada. The encouraging news? Up to 80% of premature heart disease and stroke cases are preventable through healthy lifestyle changes.

What Is Heart Disease?

Heart disease is a broad term used to describe a group of conditions that affect the structure and function of the heart.

The most common form is coronary artery disease.  This occurs when plaque, which is a buildup of cholesterol, fat, and other substances, accumulates in the coronary arteries. Over time, this buildup narrows the arteries and reduces blood flow to the heart muscle. If a plaque ruptures and a clot forms, it can suddenly block blood flow, resulting in a heart attack.

Heart disease also includes:

●      Heart failure – a condition in which the heart cannot pump blood effectively to meet the body’s needs

●      Arrhythmias – abnormalities in heart rhythm, including heartbeats that are too fast, too slow, or irregular

●      Valvular heart disease – damage or dysfunction of one or more heart valves

●      Congenital heart disease – structural heart abnormalities present at birth

Understanding what heart disease is, and how it develops, is an essential first step in prevention, early detection, and effective management.

Why Heart Health Matters

Nine in ten Canadians have at least one risk factor for heart disease or stroke. Common risk factors include:

●      High blood pressure

●      High cholesterol

●      Diabetes

●      Smoking

●      Physical inactivity

●      Unhealthy diet

●      Excess alcohol use

●      Chronic stress

While we can’t change our age or family history, many of these risk factors are completely manageable with the right screening and lifestyle habits.

Heart Screening and Tests

The good news is that checking your heart health is straightforward and often simple.

Blood Pressure Checks - High blood pressure is often called the “silent killer” because it usually has no symptoms. It is a major contributor to heart disease and stroke. Regular monitoring at the clinic or at home is essential.

Cholesterol Testing - A simple blood test measures your cholesterol levels. High LDL (“bad”) cholesterol can cause plaque buildup in arteries, increasing the risk of heart attack and stroke. Adults are generally encouraged to begin routine screening around age 40, or earlier if risk factors are present.

Blood Sugar Testing - Diabetes significantly increases the risk of heart disease. Screening can help identify elevated blood sugar early.

Electrocardiogram (ECG) - This painless test measures the electrical activity of your heart and can detect irregular rhythms or signs of previous heart injury.

Echocardiogram and Other Imaging - Depending on symptoms or risk level, your provider may recommend ultrasound imaging, Holter monitoring, or other cardiac testing to get a closer look at how your heart is functioning.

Early detection truly makes a difference.

What You Can Do to Be Heart Healthy

Your heart loves consistency more than perfection. Here are simple, evidence-based ways to protect it:

Eat Smart - Fill your plate with vegetables, fruit, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Fiber-rich foods like oats, beans, and fresh produce can help lower cholesterol. Reducing highly processed foods and excess sodium supports healthy blood pressure.

Move More - Adults should aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate physical activity per week. That sounds like a lot, but it works out to just 30 minutes five days a week. Walking, gardening, swimming, or dancing all count. Every bit helps.

Quit Smoking - Quitting smoking is one of the most powerful steps you can take to improve heart health. Benefits begin almost immediately.

Manage Stress and Sleep - Chronic stress and poor sleep impact heart health more than many people realize. Prioritizing rest, setting boundaries, and practicing stress-reduction techniques all support cardiovascular wellness.

Take Medications as Prescribed - For some people, lifestyle changes alone aren’t enough. Blood pressure, cholesterol, or diabetes medications can significantly reduce long-term risk when taken consistently.

Heart Health in Consort

At the Consort Medical Clinic, heart health is a primary focus.

Nurse practitioners Christie, Monica, and Tammy provide comprehensive cardiovascular care. They perform screening assessments, diagnose heart-related conditions such as hypertension and high cholesterol, initiate and manage medications, and order appropriate investigations. When more specialized evaluation or treatment is required, they may refer patients to a cardiologist for further expert care.

Patients may receive screening results and education from Registered Nurses Julie, Leona, or Megan, who help ensure every patient understands their results and what they mean.

In addition, Megan provides education through the Big Country Primary Care Network, focusing on practical diet and lifestyle strategies that support long-term heart health.

The Bottom Line

Your heart works hard for you every single day. Regular screening, healthy habits, and partnership with your healthcare team can dramatically reduce your risk of serious cardiovascular disease.