Heart Health Month
Heart disease is the number one cause of death in the entire world. In the United States, 1 in every 3 deaths is due to heart disease. Luckily heart disease is something you can help prevent.
Many forms of heart disease are caused by poor diet, lack of exercise, smoking, and even too much stress. Research has shown that watching out for these things can decrease your chance of heart disease. Add vegetables to your diet, eat less red meat, and exercise for 150 minutes a week. If you smoke, quitting will also help you avoid heart disease.
There are also medication options for those at risk of heart disease. Doctors often prescribe statins to patients with high cholesterol. If you are at risk for a heart attack or stroke, or if you have had one before, your doctor may suggest a low-dose aspirin every day.
Medication Management
Medications like aspirin and statins can save lives. That being said, medications can be difficult to remember to take. Many patients have concerns over side-effects. Some have trouble keeping track of different medications. It’s easy to forget something as small as a pill!
Here are a few suggestions to help you deal with your medications.
- Talk to your provider about the medication you have been prescribed. Ask about the benefits, side effects, and the best time to take it.
- If you are on multiple medications, organize them and make a schedule to not confuse what you are taking and when. Taking medications is easiest when you stick to taking them at the same time every day.
- Set reminders for yourself. Place your medication somewhere visible. Use smartphone apps that will send a reminder notification or text message. Make use of pillboxes!
- If you have a lot of concerns, talk to one of our pharmacists. Your provider can help you connect with Sarah or Gretchen.