It’s February…and not only is love in the air, but it’s also American Heart Month! And what month could be more appropriate to focus on love and the importance of taking care of our hearts? The goal of American Heart Month is to raise awareness about heart disease and to encourage everyone to take steps to maintain and improve their heart health.
Lymphedema and Your Heart1
Lymphedema and the heart are related in several ways. Lymphedema is the swelling of limbs due to a buildup of lymphatic fluid, which can put an increased strain on the heart. This happens because the heart has to work harder to pump blood and circulate it throughout the body, including the affected limb.
To maintain a healthy heart, it is important to take care of your overall cardiovascular health.
Show your Heart Some Love
So, how does Valentine’s Day fit into all of this? Well, it’s all about love, and that includes loving and taking care of our hearts! Here are a few ways you can do that2:
- Exercise regularly: Exercise is one of the best things you can do for your heart health, and it’s especially important for those with lymphedema. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week.
- Eat a healthy diet: Eating a diet that’s rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein can help lower your risk of heart disease. Avoid foods that are high in saturated fat, trans fat, and cholesterol.
- Manage stress: Stress can be bad for your heart, so it’s important to find ways to manage it. Whether it’s through exercise, meditation, or simply taking a relaxing bath, make sure you’re taking care of your mental health this Valentine’s Day.
- Get enough sleep: Sleep is crucial for heart health, so make sure you’re getting enough each night. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep each night.
Loving the Aria Free™
With all this talk about love, we can’t help but mention how much we love the Aria Free. The ultra-compact, ultra-portable Aria Free system is designed with you in mind. With a pump that fits in the palm of your hand and a smartly designed garment that’s streamlined and lightweight, Aria Free can go where you go.
So, however you’re celebrating Valentine’s Day this year, remember that February is a month to focus on all things heart-related. By maintaining a healthy lifestyle and taking care of your cardiovascular health, you can reduce the risk of heart problems and maintain a healthy, active life that supports you in enjoying the things you love!
1 https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/full/10.1161/CIRCRESAHA.115.306544
The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or another health care provider if you have any questions about a medical condition or treatment, and do not disregard your doctor’s advice because of any information provided on this site. If you think you may have a medical emergency, immediately contact your doctor or call 911.
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