Heart Awareness: Talk To Your Doctor About Heart Health

Laura Cloukey, DO and Medical Director of The Villages Health®, explains the symbolism of the stethoscope, and how it can lead to a discussion about our heart health.

"Doctors all wear these necklaces (holds up stethoscope) and isn’t it an interesting piece of jewelry, the stethoscope? Because it goes onto arterial pulses, primarily the heart -- but it can go to other areas of the body to check pulses. So, it’s a symbol that's forever in our minds: about what we’re in the hunt for. Even during the examination process with a patient, it may not be so evident to the patient that that’s what we’re talking about. So, it’s not a bad opportunity when the doctor has just finished examining you with a stethoscope; that’s the perfect time to talk about the heart and risk factors: obesity, smoking, cholesterol management, blood pressure control, smoking cessation. All the risk factor reduction that’s going to save your peripheral cardiovascular system, coronary artery system, macro and micro vascular systems. All those behaviors and some genetics thrown in there.

"When you visit your doctor and see her with a stethoscope, think about this: she’s definitely interested in my blood flow, which means my heart health, my pulses, my peripheral circulation and central circulation. It’s a wonderful time to start asking us. Likely we’ll ask you peripherally about smoking, hypertension, blood pressure management, your cholesterol. We talk a lot about your heart and are always talking about your risk factors. So should you.

Learn more about heart health:

Disclaimer: This content is for entertainment purposes only and it is not meant to be relied on as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult your physician before starting any exercise or dietary program or taking any other action respecting your health. In case of a medical emergency, call 911.

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