STAY HEART HEALTHY WITHOUT STEPPING INTO A DOCTOR'S OFFICE

 BY NORA HESTON TARTE

If you suffer from heart-related health problems, it may seem impossible to receive quality care without regular, inperson doctor visits. However, telehealth has made treatment without driving to and from your doctor’s office not only possible, but a completely safe alternative to a lot of care options.

Those who are caregivers to other family members and want to limit potential COVID-19 exposure, those who are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms (such as fever or sore throat), patients who require around the clock care and have transportation or mobility issues, and those who live in remote areas without easy access to a heart specialist, may find telehealth appointments most helpful. Another perk of telehealth appointments is that often a doctor can accommodate this type of appointment before an inperson appointment is available. “Patients are able to receive same-day feedback from their provider about sudden changes in symptoms associated with heart conditions, such as leg swelling, a rapid pulse, or sudden chest pain,” says Usha Vyas, nurse practitioner for Stockton Cardiology. “This is better than having to wait longer for a face-to-face visit.”

Those who schedule a telehealth appointment with Stockton Cardiology can expect a phone call or video call with a medical assistant—dependent on the patient's comfort level and/or provider instructions. During the call, they may review medication changes, vital signs, and take a chief complaint. “The call is then transferred to the provider who proceeds to conduct the rest of the visit by taking a detailed history and reviewing symptoms,” Usha says. “A physical examination can be done using a forward-facing camera to look for respiratory effort, bruising, swelling, and other indicators of cardiovascular disease.” The provider is even able to discuss pertinent diagnostic test results and formulate a plan with the patient without stepping foot into the office.

While telehealth appointments are a helpful tool for those with cardiovascular disease or symptoms, home care is also important. The American Heart Association recommends limiting daily intake of sodium to 1,500 mg for adults. Patients with heart concerns should also avoid highly processed foods and instead opt for fruits, vegetables, unsalted nuts, seeds, lentils, lean protein, and whole grains. Other foods to avoid include unhealthy fats such as those found in bacon fat, lard, coconut and palm oils, hydrogenated oils, and shortening, and instead choose olive oil, avocado oil, and nut/seed-based oils.

“The single best action people can take is to remain active,” Usha says. “Even walking at a leisurely pace affords significant benefit.”