Patient Education
At Memorial Health University Physicians -- CVT Surgery, we want our patients to be
educated about cardiovascular and thoracic health. The following information
will give you insight and allow you to live a healthy and productive life.
While this information serves as a guideline, you should always consult your
doctor with any questions or concerns.
Smoking and Alcohol
Cigarette smoking may cause coronary artery disease (CAD), cancer, and chronic obstructive lung disease. Not only does smoking affect your body, it is also dangerous for the people around you. Numerous studies show that children who grow up with parents who smoke have respiratory problems as a result. Carbon monoxide produced by smoking displaces the amount of oxygen in the blood, which means less oxygen is being transported throughout the body. Read more...
Diet
Your diet affects your risk of getting coronary artery disease. According to the American Heart Association (AHA), you should follow set dietary guidelines. Your body needs some fat. However, like anything else, too much can be dangerous. Foods that are high in cholesterol and saturated fat are very bad for your circulatory system. Saturated fats become solid at room temperature. This buildup of fatty deposits in the body will eventually force the arteries to narrow and may even cause a heart attack. Read more...
Exercise
Exercise is essential to a healthy body. A sedentary lifestyle can lead coronary artery disease, obesity, high blood pressure (hypertension), and a low level of high density lipids (HDL) cholesterol. Studies show that people who exercise regularly after heart surgery have a better survival rate. Read more...
Exercise and the Elderly
As we get older, we tend to become less physically active. In fact, about 40 percent of people over age 55 report no physical activity. However, the older we become, the more we need to exercise. Exercise helps prevent bone loss, bone fractures, and many other diseases associated with aging. It also increases muscle strength, balance, and coordination. Read more...
Additional Information
For more patient education, visit the following Web sites:
American Heart Association
American Lung Association |