October 23, 2022
Author: Lindsey Ulrich
“Embracing a few healthy habits makes a big difference in feeling better and living a longer, better quality life.”
What is the most effective way to save more lives from heart-related deaths? According to cardiologist David McComb, DO, the biggest intervention is changes that everyone can make in their daily lives for prevention.
“There have been significant advances in cardiac treatment that have extended and improved the lives of my patients, but adopting a few healthy habits makes a big difference in feeling better and living a longer, better quality life,” said Dr. McComb.
Dr. McComb is quick to admit that he would rather write a prescription for an exercise regimen than any medication. “I write an exercise goal on a prescription pad and give it to my patients when they first see me. I want them to think that it is as much a treatment as it is a cardiac drug or a surgical procedure.”
Most patients are in their 50s or 60s or older when they start seeing a cardiologist, but Dr. McComb also diagnoses hypertension and even coronary artery disease in those in their 20s and 30s. Regardless of age, he says it’s good for everyone to know their numbers.
“During your next checkup, ask for your heart rate and blood pressure. Get a cholesterol test and save your data to compare changes over time,” said Dr. McComb.
If all of this may seem like a big change, Dr. McComb suggests choosing an area to focus on. Track your weight over time. Often a change can have benefits in other areas. For example, getting more exercise reduces stress and should help you sleep better at night.
“If you’re considering making a big change to your current lifestyle, be sure to talk to your cardiologist or primary care provider,” Dr. McComb said. “They will review your current fitness level and assess what level of activity is safe for you. It’s never too late to start and improve in small increments at a time.”
David McComb, DO, is a board certified cardiologist at McLaren Greater Lansing Cardiovascular Associates in Lansing, Okemos and Eaton Rapids. If you are interested in scheduling an appointment with Dr. McComb, please call (877) 296-0111.
Source: news.google.com