LUMBERTON — An alarming 33 percent of Americans currently suffer from cardiovascular disease.
Throughout Heart Health Awareness Month, Southeastern Health’s Southeastern Wound Healing Center, a member of the Healogics network, will work to spread awareness about how cardiovascular diseases can affect the wound-healing process. Cardiovascular diseases and other issues with the heart and vessels can cause blockages that obstruct the flow of blood needed for proper wound healing.
Chronic wounds affect about 6.7 million people in the United States and, if left untreated, an unhealed wound on the foot or leg can lead to a diminished quality of life and possible amputation. As many as 82 percent of leg amputations are the result of poor circulation of the affected limb.
“Poor heart health leads to poor outcomes when it comes to wound healing,” said Kathy Hansen, Southeastern Wound Healing Center program director. “A healthy heart means circulation is good and if a wound does occur, it can heal much faster.”
Southeastern Wound Healing Center offers the following tips to live a heart healthy life:
— Live an active lifestyle with 30 minutes of exercise on most days.
— Don’t smoke or use tobacco of any kind, as it is one of the most significant risk factors for developing heart disease.
— Eat a diet that is heart-healthy. This includes lots of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans and other low-fat sources of protein.
— Maintain a healthy weight. Obesity can lead to high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes. All of these chronic conditions can lead to heart disease.
— Ensure you get quality sleep by making it a priority in your life. Most adults need seven to nine hours of sleep each night.
— Manage your stress in a healthy way with positive self-talk, using stress stoppers, doing things you enjoy, and relaxing on a regular basis.
— See your health-care provider for regular screenings. This includes blood pressure, cholesterol and diabetes screenings.
— Take off your socks at your next checkup and speak up about any problems with your legs or feet.
Area residents living with a wound and cardiovascular disease can come to the Southeastern Wound Healing Center at 103 W. 27th St. in Lumberton or call 910-738-3836. No referral is required.