In the United States, heart failure is up to four times more prevalent in adults over the age of 65. (link to source) 

February was officially named American Heart Month in 1963 by Lyndon B. Johnson to spread awareness and encourage education on heart health. As people age, the risk of heart disease naturally increases with adults 65 years and older experiencing the highest rates of heart disease and stroke in Texas. (Link to source)

Gonzaba Medical Group prioritizes preventative healthcare, which is why we practice the coordinated care model. This model places the primary care provider at the center of the patient’s care with direct access to specialty providers and resources. Patients benefit from a primary care provider who creates an individualized healthcare plan for them and works directly with in-house specialty providers for optimized care. As a patient, your primary care provider focuses on your healthcare plan so you can Keep Doing The Things You Love.

When it comes to heart disease, one of the most important preventative measures is controlling your blood pressure. Gonzaba’s primary care providers know this, which is why we reached out to Dr. Cristina Rivera, Family Medicine, to get you the information you need.

“Keeping your blood pressure under control will increase your chances of living longer, since elevated blood pressure can cause multiple issues in the body, including heart attacks, strokes and chronic kidney disease.” – Dr. Cristina Rivera, Family Medicine

Dr. Rivera tells us that when blood pressure is not controlled and stays high for long periods of time, it can negatively affect the heart in various ways. High blood pressure means your heart is working overtime to pump blood throughout the body which can cause damage to the arteries, weaken heart muscles, reduce blood flow to the heart, or cause irregular heart rhythms. All of these side effects lead to more serious, life-threatening ailments that our provider, Dr. Rivera, shared with us above; heart attacks, strokes, kidney disease, among others.

Healthy blood pressure levels are maintained through an active lifestyle, a healthy diet and regular doctor check-ups. It is important that you visit your Gonzaba primary care provider with regularity because they check your blood pressure at every visit. If your blood pressure is lower or higher than it needs to be, they will create an individualized health plan to help you get back on track. This might include diet changes, lifestyle changes or seeing a specialist.

When eating a healthy diet, limit foods high in saturated fat such as fatty meats, butter, cream and ice cream, limit foods high in sodium such as processed foods and canned foods, and limit foods with added sugars such as soft drinks, fruit drinks, pastries, candy, jams and jellies. Additionally, limit smoking and alcohol as much as you can. Instead, fill your diet with fruits and vegetables, lean protein, healthy fats and low-fat dairy. For a more personalized diet, talk to your primary care provider, and they will curate a plan that is fit for your needs.

To keep an active lifestyle, incorporate exercise into your daily life. Try taking one of our many exercise classes such as zumba, tai chi or chair yoga! Gonzaba Medical Group offers free classes every week to seniors above the age of 62 at our two event centers. Check out our facebook for the full monthly schedule!

If you’re not quite ready for an exercise class, consider starting small. Take a walk around your neighborhood, or find a walking track near you for a leisurely stroll. A recent study published by The American Heart Association revealed that increasing your daily step count lowers your risk of heart-related risks.

These lifestyle changes are general measures to prevent uncontrolled blood pressure, but they do not replace doctor’s instructions. Ask your primary care provider about your heart health to get an individualized health plan for your needs. Call now at 210-921-3800 to schedule your next appointment.

If your doctor has prescribed blood pressure medication for your needs, remember to take it daily, or as prescribed by your doctor. Forgetting to take it on a regular basis can increase your risk of heart-related disease and uncontrolled blood pressure side effects.

To avoid forgetting to take your medication, consider keeping it in a visible place, setting an alarm, or using a weekly pill box. Don’t have one? Ask our Gonzaba providers for a pill box during your next visit.

According to The American Heart Association, heart disease is currently the number one cause of death in the United States, which means it is imperative to use this month not only to educate yourself on heart health but also to spread awareness to the people around you.

Use this month to initiate important conversations with loved ones and provide them with educational resources such as this article, The American Heart Association website, and encourage them to stay active. If you have loved ones who are above the age of 62 and are unsure about their heart health, tell them to call us at 210-921-3800 to schedule an appointment with one of our primary care providers, and experience The Gonzaba Difference. If they are already a patient, invite them to check out our Event Center Calendars on  Facebook  and attend one of our various exercise classes.

At Gonzaba Medical Group, the health of our patients is our priority. We take care of you so you can Keep Doing The Things You Love.