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Understanding the Connection Between Allergies, Inflammation, and Heart Health

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For those with seasonal allergies, it can be difficult to deal with the sneezing, stuffiness, watery eyes, itchy throats and more that come with the condition. The discomfort and inconvenience caused by these symptoms can be more than bothersome, often impacting daily activities, productivity, and overall quality of life. Even though seasonal allergies are quite common, their effects go beyond physical discomfort and can influence various aspects of health and well-being. In this blog, we’ll look at the connection between allergies, inflammation and heart health.

How Seasonal Allergies Affect Inflammation and Heart Health

Allergies do in fact have a connection with inflammation in the body and overall heart health. There have been numerous studies that have highlighted the relationship between seasonal allergies, inflammation markers, and cardiovascular outcomes. Understanding this connection is important for individuals seeking to manage their allergies effectively while prioritizing their heart health.

As described in an article from CNN, ‘While prior research has shown a connection between having allergies and an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, “the question is why?” said pulmonologist Dr. Raj Dasgupta, an assistant professor of clinical medicine at the Keck School of Medicine at the University of Southern California.

“We can’t really show causality, but science does show it’s connected to pro-inflammatory mediators, things that trigger inflammation in the body,” said Dasputa, who was not involved in the study.’

Histamines, for example, can increase blood flow to the affected area when an allergen strikes, prompting the immune system to release antibodies, which causes inflammation. This explains why numerous allergy medications are antihistamines, which are made to counter the inflammatory reaction. While inflammation serves as the body’s defense mechanism against pathogens, an excessively active or prolonged response is a root cause of numerous chronic ailments, including diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease.

Source: CNN Allergies, Asthma Linked to Heart Disease, Study Says.

Caring for Your Heart While Managing Allergies

Allergies alone are not a source of heart disease, and there are many other contributors, including diabetes, obesity, smoking, a lack of exercise, and a family history of cardiovascular issues. There are things you can do to help. Understanding the connection between allergies and heart health is the first step in taking action to manage allergies properly to maintain heart health. Some practical tips that can help reduce inflammation and lessen the impact of seasonal allergies include: lifestyle adjustments such as minimizing exposure to allergens, maintaining a clean indoor environment, and practicing stress-reduction techniques can make a significant difference. Additionally, dietary considerations, including consuming anti-inflammatory foods, staying hydrated, and consuming heart-healthy foods, can play a crucial role in overall health. You may also want to explore potential treatment options with a healthcare provider, such as allergy medications or immunotherapy, which can provide further relief and support in managing allergies for optimal heart health.

Learn More: Four Things to Know About High Blood Pressure

Protect the hearts of those around you by taking a CPR/AED and first aid course at one of HeartCert CPR’s nationwide locations. Register for a course today.

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HeartCert is your trusted training partner for CPR, ACLS, PALS, EMR, First Aid, CNA, IV, EKG and more, throughout the United States.

Courses include CPR/AED/First Aid, Basic Life Support (BLS), Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS), Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS), Certified Nursing Assistant training, IV training, EKG training, babysitter basics and more. Courses and certifications from both the American Heart Association and American Red Cross are available.We offer virtual courses and certifications, in all 50 states as well as in-person classes at our headquarters, HeartCert CPR Eagan and major cities in Iowa, Illinois, Georgia, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Nebraska, Pennsylvania, Texas and Wisconsin.

5 Exercises to Promote Heart Health

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Keeping your heart healthy is one of the best ways to live longer and become healthier overall. With direct knowledge in the medical field, our team at HeartCert CPR is here to advise you on how to increase heart health. Keep reading to learn how exercise benefits your health, what exercise type works best, and what exercises support your heart the most.

group of people stretching in yoga exercise class

Why Does Exercise Increase Heart Health?

By exercising routinely, your heart will be in tip-top shape. But why does exercise help your heart? Here are the main benefits that you can experience by implementing a heart-healthy routine:

  • Lower blood pressure
  • Increase blood flow
  • Reduce heart attack risk
  • Minimize diabetes risk
  • Boost blood circulation
  • Encourage a healthy weight
  • Prevent future heart problems

What Exercise Types Are Best for Heart Health?

The first thing that comes to mind is probably cardio. After all, the name literally translates to heart. But other types of exercises can help too. According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, to get comprehensive heart health benefits, there are three main exercise categories to hit:

Aerobics and Cardio

Aerobic exercise is the key to keeping your blood circulating and your heart healthy. Through aerobic exercise, blood pressure and heart rate lower, and your cardiac output can increase. Designed to strengthen your heart and lungs, you’ll be in a much healthier state by incorporating cardiovascular exercises.

Flexibility and Balance

Before thou doth protest too much, this isn’t directly associated with your heart, but it’s still equally as important as the cardio exercises. By increasing flexibility and balance through stretching, it helps your body keep up with more intense heart health exercises. Actively adding stretching to your daily routine ensures that injuries are kept at bay. With added stability and flexibility, you’ll become less likely to experience pulled muscles, cramps, joint pain, trips, and falls.

Strength and Resistance

Strength and resistance training is an essential part of your health. Implementing strength training two times a week helps tone your body so you’re less at risk for heart disease. Weight machines, resistance bands, push-ups, squats, and various body-resistant exercises can help raise good cholesterol and lower bad cholesterol.

Upping Your Step Count May Increase Your Lifespan

 

What 5 Exercises Are Best for Heart Health?

Now that you know the core categories to promote heart health, you might be wondering what the best exercises are that blend the different types. Here are five healthy ideas to check off your weekly exercise list to empower your heart:

1. Running

Before you run away from this page, you can also get similar benefits from brisk walks and hiking as well. While running is ideal to receive the most heart-healthy perks, walking comes in at a close second. Especially if there are terrain changes that are often associated with hiking. The more energy you put into the exercise, the more your heart rate elevates, and the more your body will reap the benefits.

2. Cycling

If running isn’t your thing and walking bores you to tears, we have another cardio option for you: cycling. Pull out that rusty, dirt-covered bike in the garage, and put it to good use. Otherwise, get your hands on a cycling machine or just pop a mini peddler under your desk during the day. The nice thing about this exercise is that while your legs may be exhausted, at least you won’t have to support your body once it gets tired.

3. Yoga

Yoga is arguably one of the best ways to stretch. But first, get those stereotypes out of your head. No, it’s not just for women. Nor is it full of woo-woo inspirational stuff—unless you choose to attend a specialized class for one. The art of yoga focuses on honing in on your inner self and relaxing to get the utmost stretch. Plus, there are strength yoga sessions you can try to get even more heart-healthy benefits from the exercise. All we’re going to say is that it’s harder than it looks, and don’t knock it until you try it.

4. Weightlifting

As we mentioned earlier, weight and resistance training is ideal for your heart because it simultaneously strengthens your heart and your body. By weightlifting a couple of times a week, you can keep your body—and heart—in peak shape. Plus, it doubles as a way to get rid of your gut and other fat-prone areas, which are other risk indicators for heart disease.

5. Swimming

If running, walking, or cycling isn’t your thing, then swimming is your next best bet. For anyone prone to leg injuries that arise with walking and running, swimming is ideal to avoid it. Since the exercise focuses on both arm and leg strength, it lessens pressure by dividing force between both areas of muscles. So, now’s the time to convince your spouse to get a pool installed in the backyard or maybe just sign up for swim memberships at your nearest community center.

Heart-Healthy Habits

Exercising regularly keeps your heart and body in its prime. If you would like emergency training or someone you know is high risk or prone to heart health problems, it might be helpful to take one of HeartCert’s online preventative courses to better prepare yourself for an emergency.

 

HeartCert CPR is your trusted training partner for CPR, ACLS, PALS, EMR, First Aid, CNA, IV and more, in Minnesota and throughout the United States.

HeartCert CPR courses include CPR/AED/First Aid and CPR/AED, Basic Life Support (BLS), Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS), Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS), and Certified Nursing Assistant training. Courses and certifications from both the American Heart Association and American Red Cross are available.

We are now offering virtual CPR courses and certifications, as well as safe in-person courses at all locations and our headquarters, HeartCert CPR Eagan.

How to Minimize Holiday Stress

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The holiday season is special, memorable, and fun – but it can also be busy, demanding, and tense. The impact of stress on heart health has been well documented, so it’s important to do what you can to minimize holiday stress.

There are some things you can do to help reduce stress during the holidays, including:

Plan early. Establishing your holiday plans and gatherings early can help you feel more content with what to expect throughout the season. 

Be okay with saying no. Carefully consider your obligations and avoid taking on more than you can handle to prevent excess stress.  

Stick to a budget. Financial stress is a common concern during the holidays. Talk to family ahead of time and stick to a comfortable budget.

Practice mindfulness. Practicing mindfulness is a great way to manage and reduce stress and promote a healthy heart. 

Mindfulness can be a powerful tool to maintain perspective and stay calm through the chaos. We have a few tips, which we’ll share below.

What is Mindfulness?

Mindfulness is a practice of noticing when you get distracted – by to-dos, past or future events, news or other events – and bringing your attention to the present. It’s been shown to decrease stress and increase calm, and it can make your holidays more enjoyable.

Read More: The Link Between Heart Health and Mental Health

Use Mindfulness to Minimize Holiday Stress

Here are some tips from Johns Hopkins on staying mindful this holiday season

  1. Recognize What Really Matters: As you’re shopping, wrapping, baking or cooking, try to stay present and connected to the season. Waiting in line or stuck in traffic? Use those moments to take a deep breath and reflect.
  2. Let Good be Good Enough: We want everything to be perfect at the holidays, but that’s an unrealistic expectation. Acknowledge that imperfection is normal and inevitable.
  3. Respond to Stressors with Kindness: Understand that most people are stressed during the holidays, and extend kindness whenever possible.

One of the best ways to ensure that those you love stay healthy all season long is to learn CPR. HeartCert offers a wide variety of CPR and first aid training courses, both virtually and in person. Sign up for an online course or find a training center near you.

HeartCert CPR is your trusted training partner for CPR, ACLS, PALS, EMR, First Aid, CNA, IV and more, in Minnesota and throughout the United States.

HeartCert CPR courses include CPR/AED/First Aid and CPR/AED, Basic Life Support (BLS), Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS), Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS), and Certified Nursing Assistant training. Courses and certifications from both the American Heart Association and American Red Cross are available.

We are now offering virtual CPR courses and certifications, as well as safe in-person courses at all locations and our headquarters, HeartCert CPR Eagan.

Women: Do you Know These Silent Heart Attack Symptoms?

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Photo by Giulia Bertelli on Unsplash

Heart attacks are a serious health concern, and they can be life-threatening if not treated quickly. Unfortunately, many women may not realize that they’re having a heart attack because the symptoms can be different from those typically associated with heart attacks in men. Here are four silent heart attack symptoms that women should be aware of:

Chest Pain

Chest pain is the most common symptom of a heart attack in both men and women. However, women may experience chest pain differently, such as a tightness or pressure in the chest instead of a crushing pain. This can make it more difficult to recognize the symptom as a sign of a heart attack.

Shortness of Breath

Shortness of breath is another common symptom of a heart attack in women. This can feel like you can’t catch your breath, or it may feel like you’re out of breath for no reason.

Fatigue

Women who experience a heart attack may feel fatigued, especially if they’re not getting enough sleep. Fatigue can make it difficult to carry out daily activities and can be a sign of an underlying health problem.

Nausea or Indigestion

Nausea or indigestion can be symptoms of a heart attack in women. This can feel like an upset stomach, and it may be accompanied by a feeling of fullness or bloating.

Learn More

Fast action can save lives. It’s a good idea to know what to do if someone experiences a heart attack or cardiac arrest. HeartCert offers CPR and First Aid classes for all skill sets and levels of experience. Whether you are an experienced Healthcare Professional or a new parent just wanting to learn ‘the basics’, we have a class for you! We can teach a convenient one-on-one CPR or first aid training session, or we can certify a large group on-site depending on your needs. Visit our Homepage to get started.

HeartCert CPR is your trusted training partner for CPR, ACLS, PALS, EMR, First Aid, CNA, IV, EKG and more.

HeartCert CPR courses include CPR/AED/First Aid, Basic Life Support (BLS), Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS), Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS), Certified Nursing Assistant training, IV training, EKG training, babysitter basics and more. Courses and certifications from both the American Heart Association and American Red Cross are available.

We are now offering virtual CPR courses and certifications. We offer safe in-person courses at all HeartCert locations throughout the United States, including our headquarters, HeartCert CPR Eagan.

This is an updated blog post that was originally published in 2019.

How to Lower Your Salt Intake

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Looking to improve your cardiovascular health in the new year? There are many easy changes you can make for better health: eat more whole foods, get more physical activity, focus on high-quality sleep, reduce stress, and learn CPR, among others. One way to reduce your risk of heart disease and stroke is to lower your salt intake.

Sodium and Heart Disease

Excess salt intake is a known risk factor for heart disease and stroke. High sodium levels increase blood pressure and cause plaque to accumulate in the blood vessels. Because an estimated 90 percent of Americans consume more sodium than is recommended, it’s something that we should all be aware of.

a woman sprinkling salt on her food
photo credit: @fmdevice accessed 1/4/23 via CC0

4 Tips to Lower Salt Intake

  1. Start Gradually: For long-term success, make the switch gradually. Mix low-sodium and regular foods, and add just a little less salt every time you cook. This will help you adjust more easily and sustainably.
  2. Buy Fresh or Frozen: Canned vegetables and beans are often high in sodium. Choose frozen, dried, or fresh whenever possible.
  3. Eat More Potassium: Potassium counters the effects of sodium in the body. Foods such as bananas, tomatoes, cantaloupe, oranges, and beans are good sources of this vital nutrient. (Learn more about the power of potassium: Potassium Can Lower Heart Disease Risk)
  4. Get Creative with Flavor: Instead of adding salt, season food with other spices, herbs, vinegar, garlic, oils or citrus. Always taste food before adding salt!

What’s the best way to protect the hearts of those you love? Sign up for a CPR training course! HeartCert offers a variety of CPR certification classes across the country and online. Find your CPR class today!

HeartCert CPR is your trusted training partner for CPR, ACLS, PALS, EMR, First Aid, CNA, IV, EKG and more.

HeartCert CPR courses include CPR/AED/First Aid, Basic Life Support (BLS), Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS), Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS), Certified Nursing Assistant training, IV training, EKG training, babysitter basics and more. Courses and certifications from both the American Heart Association and American Red Cross are available.

We are now offering virtual CPR courses and certifications. We offer safe in-person courses at all HeartCert locations throughout the United States, including our headquarters, HeartCert CPR Eagan.

This is an updated blog post that was originally published in 2019.

How Alcohol Impacts Heart Health

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Are you considering cutting back on your alcohol consumption? You’re not alone. Many people across the country are drinking less, or even cutting booze out entirely. The reasons for this shift vary. Mental health, weight control, financial constraints, or simply the increased availability of non-alcoholic options are common reasons given. For others, the main motivator is the effect of alcohol on physical health.

woman drinking alcohol
photo credit: @wildlittlethingsphoto accessed 11/30/22 via CC0

The Impact of Alcohol on Heart Health

Drinking too much alcohol can contribute to high blood pressure, obesity, depression and anxiety, stroke, high cholesterol, and more. Heavy drinking has been shown to prematurely age the arteries, and can lead to poor sleep and food choices.

Binge drinking – defined as four or more drinks in two hours for women and five or more drinks in two hours for men – is even more harmful. The risks of binge drinking include irregular heartbeats, stroke, blood clots and even heart failure.

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How Much Alcohol is Safe to Drink?

The American Heart Association recommends “moderate” alcohol consumption. This means an average of one drink per day for women, and one to two drinks per day for men. The amount in each drink matters, too: one drink is defined as 5 ounces of wine, one 12-ounce regular beer, or 1.5 ounces of 80-proof spirits.

What About Red Wine?

There has long been a common belief that drinking a glass of red wine each day is good for the heart. It’s true that there are some components in red wine (such as flavonoids, resveratrol, and antioxidants) that can benefit heart health. However, those nutrients are easily found in other foods, such as blueberries and red grapes.

If you’re looking to improve heart health, it’s best to focus on lifestyle changes such as eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, quitting smoking, reducing stress, and getting enough sleep.

Read: How to Stay Healthy This Winter

The Bottom Line: Moderation is Key

If you drink, talk to your doctor about your risk factors. They can help you determine whether and how much is safe for you to drink. In general, focus on moderation – one drink per day or less – to minimize the risk to your heart, health and happiness.

What’s one of the best ways to protect the hearts of those you love? Learn CPR! Because most cardiac arrests occur in the home, keep your loved ones safe with HeartCert CPR training.

HeartCert CPR is your trusted training partner for CPR, ACLS, PALS, EMR, First Aid, CNA, IV, EKG and more.

HeartCert CPR courses include CPR/AED/First Aid, Basic Life Support (BLS), Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS), Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS), Certified Nursing Assistant training, IV training, EKG training, babysitter basics and more. Courses and certifications from both the American Heart Association and American Red Cross are available.

We are now offering virtual CPR courses and certifications. We offer safe in-person courses at all HeartCert locations throughout the United States, including our headquarters, HeartCert CPR Eagan.

The Link Between Heart Health and Mental Health

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The connection between the heart and the brain has long been explored, explained, and romanticized. Now, researchers say that the brain and heart are connected in a very real way, with new evidence of the link between heart health and mental health.

How Does Mental Health Affect The Heart?

According to the American Heart Association, research shows that good mental health can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and improve overall heart health. On the flip side, poor mental well-being can increase the risk of heart disease.

This could be explained by the results of a certain mental state. For example, people with a more optimistic outlook on life tend to engage in healthier behaviors, such as exercise and sleep. However, researchers also point out the link between stress and heart health, which has been well-documented.

Regardless of the cause of the mental and heart health link, experts urge primary care doctors and cardiologists to be aware of the risks and treat patients accordingly.

Doctors Should Include Mental Health Screening in Routine Visits

To identify at-risk patients, researchers are advocating for mental health screenings to be made part of regular check-ups. This should be prioritized for patients with heart disease or risk factors. Doctors should also be well-versed in possible interventions, such as medications or talk therapy, for patients who are struggling.

How to Boost Mental Health for the Good of the Heart

mental health
photo credit: @mikhail-nilov accessed 4/2/21 via CC0

The good news? Many of the tactics recommended to improve heart health will also benefit mental well-being. These include healthy eating, quality sleep, exercise, minimizing alcohol, and maintaining social connections.

What’s the best way to protect the hearts of those around you? Take a virtual CPR training course!

HeartCert CPR is your trusted training partner for CPR, ACLS, PALS, EMR and First Aid in the Twin Cities and throughout Minnesota.

HeartCert CPR courses include CPR/AED/First Aid, Basic Life Support (BLS), Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS), Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS), and Certified Nursing Assistant training. Courses and certifications from both the American Heart Association and American Red Cross are available.

We are now offering virtual CPR courses and certifications, as well as safe in-person courses at our headquarters, HeartCert CPR Eagan.

Include Heart Attack Prevention in Game Day Planning

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With the Superbowl fast approaching, football fans are deciding which team to root for, choosing a jersey, and – most importantly – planning snacks. One additional task you should take on before game day? Becoming aware of common heart attack symptoms and brushing up on CPR.

game day
photo credit: jeshoots accessed 2/3/21 via CC0

Why should heart attack prevention be part of game day planning? Research has found a link between major sporting events, like the Superbowl and World Cup, and an increase in heart attacks and arrhythmias. Even if you don’t have any elevated risk factors for heart disease, here are a few things you can do to protect your heart on game day.

Manage Stress

When you have an attachment to a team or an outcome and the game isn’t going the way you’d hoped, stress can ramp way up. This causes an increase in heart rate and blood pressure, potentially triggering a cardiovascular event.

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Know Your Risks

If you have any preexisting risk factors, such as obesity, smoking, a sedentary lifestyle, or high blood pressure, you may be more susceptible to a heart attack on game day. Talk to your doctor about ways to improve your heart health and minimize risk.

Focus on the Positive

Instead of focusing just on the game play and outcome of the game, try to enjoy the whole day for what it is – a fun get-together with family and friends. Laugh at the commercials, take in the halftime show, and have a memorable and low-stress day.

Whether you’re a football fan or not, hands-only CPR is a good skill to have. Check out our full offering of virtual and in-person CPR and first aid courses.

HeartCert CPR is your trusted training partner for CPR, ACLS, PALS, EMR and First Aid in the Twin Cities and throughout Minnesota.

HeartCert CPR courses include CPR/AED/First Aid and CPR/AED, Basic Life Support (BLS), Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS), Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS), and Certified Nursing Assistant training. Courses and certifications from both the American Heart Association and American Red Cross are available.

We are now offering virtual CPR courses and certifications, as well as safe in-person courses at our headquarters, HeartCert CPR Eagan.

This is an updated blog post that was originally published in October 2018.

Common Heart Attack Symptoms in Women

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If someone asked you to name common heart attack symptoms, what would you say? The first to come to mind would probably be sudden chest pressure, left arm pain and a loss of consciousness. And that’s not wrong – if you’re talking about common symptoms in men. When it comes to women, heart attack symptoms are different, and they’re often much less obvious.

heart attack symptoms
photo credit: @kellysikkema accessed 1/5/20 via CC0

Different Causes Result in Different Symptoms

When men suffer a heart attack, it’s often caused by significant plaque build up and a resulting blood clot. Therefore, symptoms are more likely to be sudden and severe, like those discussed above.

What’s the difference between heart attack and sudden cardiac arrest? Click here to learn more.

In women, however, heart attacks are more often caused by plaque erosion – when smaller pieces of plaque partially block arteries. Because this is a more subtle stop of blood flow, symptoms are less severe and recognizable.

Common Heart Attack Symptoms in Women

Half of women don’t experience any chest pain, and many of the common symptoms mimic other ailments. This is why it’s important for women to understand their risk factors, watch for symptoms, and always advocate for their health.

Common symptoms include:

  • Sudden, extreme fatigue
  • Shortness of breath
  • Indigestion and heartburn
  • Dizziness
  • Back and neck pain
  • Arm and jaw pain
  • Chest pain, discomfort and pressure

If you experience any of these symptoms, don’t hesitate to contact a medical professional.

HeartCert CPR is your trusted training partner for CPR, ACLS, PALS, EMR and First Aid in the Twin Cities and throughout Minnesota.

HeartCert CPR courses include CPR/AED/First Aid and CPR/AED, Basic Life Support (BLS), Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS), Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS), and Certified Nursing Assistant training. Courses and certifications from both the American Heart Association and American Red Cross are available.

We are now offering virtual CPR courses and certifications, as well as safe in-person courses at our headquarters, HeartCert CPR Eagan.

This is an updated blog post that was originally published in November 2018.

What’s the Difference Between Heart Attack and Sudden Cardiac Arrest?

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Many people associate CPR with heart attacks. However, because heart attacks usually don’t cause the heart to stop beating, CPR is not often needed following a heart attack. In contrast, a sudden cardiac arrest occurs suddenly, without warning, and stops the heart from pumping blood. This is when CPR is needed to save the patient’s life, and to preserve brain and organ function.

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What are other differences between heart attack and cardiac arrest? We turned to the American Heart Association for more information.

What is a Heart Attack?

When a blocked artery prevents oxygen-rich blood from reaching a section of the heart, that part of the heart begins to die. If the blocked artery is not reopened, damage can be severe.

Because of the gradual nature of a heart attack, symptoms often begin and build slowly, over the course of several hours, days, or even weeks. And symptoms vary, especially between men and women. It’s important to know and be able to recognize symptoms and seek medical attention as soon as possible.

sudden cardiac arrest
photo credit: @averey accessed 12/2/20 via CC0

What is a Sudden Cardiac Arrest?

Unlike the slow build of a heart attack, a sudden cardiac arrest occurs with little warning. The effects are immediate. Cardiac arrest is triggered by an irregular heartbeat (also known as arrhythmia). This disrupts the heart’s ability to pump blood throughout the body.

Without CPR performed by a bystander or medical professional, the patient will lose consciousness and die in a matter of minutes. Even if the patient survives, the lack of blood and oxygen to the brain and organs could cause permanent damage. This is why it’s vitally important for bystanders to know CPR – and be ready and willing to perform it when necessary.

HeartCert CPR is your trusted training partner for CPR, ACLS, PALS, EMR and First Aid in the Twin Cities and throughout Minnesota.

HeartCert CPR courses include CPR/AED/First Aid and CPR/AED, Basic Life Support (BLS), Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS), Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS), and Certified Nursing Assistant training. Courses and certifications from both the American Heart Association and American Red Cross are available.

We are now offering virtual CPR courses and certifications! Find your CPR class at any of our convenient Twin Cities locations, including our headquarters, HeartCert CPR Eagan.

Four Numbers to Track for Heart Health

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When it comes to heart health, it’s important to be aware of risk factors and health indicators long before a problem arises. But the sheer volume of information around preventative measures can be overwhelming. To keep it simple, here are four basic metrics that the American Heart Association recommends tracking on a regular basis. Doing so can help you identify and prevent a heart attack or similar issue down the road.

heart health
photo credit: @designecologist accessed 08/26/20 via CC0

Blood Pressure

If you track just one measure of heart health, it should be blood pressure, experts say. An elevated blood pressure can have a significant impact on your heart. Talk to your doctor to understand your current blood pressure, and to determine a blood pressure goal. If you track blood pressure at home, make sure you’re getting accurate readings, and continue to see your doctor regularly.

Cholesterol

Because there are different types of cholesterol with different effects on heart health, it’s important to get a reading and understanding from your doctor. Continue to monitor cholesterol with regular blood tests.

Blood Sugar

Blood sugar is important because, when elevated, it’s an early sign of diabetes. Type 2 diabetes can lead to heart disease or stroke. Regularly monitoring blood sugar can alert you of a diabetes risk early, and give you time to make dietary changes.

Sleep

It can be tough to get enough sleep, but it’s important. Adults need at least seven hours of sleep per night – too much or too little can be harmful for your heart. The good news is that sleep is relatively easy to monitor and track, either through a wearable tracker or simply by writing down the number of hours you sleep every night.

What’s one additional way to protect the hearts of those around you? Learn CPR!

HeartCert CPR is offering virtual CPR training options to keep our students safe. Contact us to learn more.

Register For a CPR Class

 

HeartCert CPR is your trusted training partner for CPR, ACLS, PALS, EMR and First Aid in the Twin Cities and throughout greater Minnesota. HeartCert offers a variety of courses, including CPR/AED/First Aid and CPR/AED, Basic Life Support (BLS), Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS), Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS), and Certified Nursing Assistant training. Courses and certifications from both the American Heart Association and American Red Cross are available.

Find your CPR class at any of our convenient Twin Cities locations, including our headquarters, HeartCert CPR Eagan.

How to Care For Your Heart During Allergy Season

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Spring is here in Minnesota, bringing warmer temperatures, blooming flowers, and pollen in the air. This year, as the Coronavirus pandemic spreads, every sneeze or cough seems like cause for alarm. But there are key differences between allergy symptoms and those of COVID-19.

Seasonal allergies generally cause a runny nose, itchy eyes and throat, sneezing and a cough. The main indicator of COVID-19 is a fever. So if you are experiencing allergy symptoms with no fever, rest assured that you are likely not at risk (but when in doubt, experts advise staying home and self-isolating).

Even though spring allergy symptoms are not cause for major concern in this heightened time, it’s still important for allergy sufferers to be aware and take good care of their health. This is especially true for heart disease patients, according to the American Heart Association.

allergy
photo credit: @nita-9825 accessed 04/01/20 via CC0

Avoid OTC Allergy Medication

Over-the-counter decongestants are stimulants. They can increase heart rate and raise blood pressure, which is especially harmful for people with heart disease or high blood pressure. Antihistamines may be a better option. However, it’s always best to check with your doctor before taking an over-the-counter medication.

Tips for Minimizing Symptoms

The best way to avoid the impacts of allergies is to keep pollen at bay as much as possible. Keep doors and windows closed, and run the air conditioner for temperature control. After spending time outside, change out of your clothes and take a shower.

Protect the hearts of those around you by taking a CPR/AED course at one of HeartCert CPR’s convenient Minnesota locations. Register for a course today.

Register For a CPR Class

 

HeartCert CPR is your trusted training partner for CPR, ACLS, PALS, EMR and First Aid in the Twin Cities and throughout Minnesota. We offer online, night and weekend classes to fit your busy schedule!

HeartCert offers a variety of courses, including CPR/AED/First Aid and CPR/AED, Basic Life Support (BLS), Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS), Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS), and Emergency Medical Responder – First Responder (EMR). Courses and certifications from both the American Heart Association and American Red Cross are available.

Find your CPR class at any of our convenient Twin Cities locations, including our headquarters, HeartCert CPR Eagan.

Your Spouse’s Health May Affect Your Heart

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With Valentine’s Day on the horizon, many people are buying gifts and planning dates, thinking about the best way to show their love. Here’s an idea that could really be good for your partner’s heart: adopt healthier habits! That’s the takeaway from new research into the effect of one spouse’s health on another.

Spouse’s Health May Affect Your Heart
photo credit: @brandless accessed 01/23/20 via CC0

In the study, researchers examined five years of biometric and blood test data from more than 5,000 couples. They examined each participant’s overall cardiovascular health and levels of risk factors such as diet and exercise, smoking, total cholesterol and blood pressure.

Researchers found that couples were actually more likely to align on negative health habits, such as eating an unhealthy diet or not exercising enough. It followed that, in three-fourths of couples studied, if one partner had suboptimal heart health, the other partner did too.

The study findings didn’t come as much of a surprise, researchers said. We tend to marry people who are similar to us. Further, if one member of a household is exposed to a factor that affects health, such as lack of access to healthy food, the other members usually are too.

But researchers say that the study findings present a unique opportunity: to focus on one spouse’s health in order to improve the health of a couple, a family or even a community.

Want to protect your family’s health in just one day? Sign up for a Minneapolis CPR class with HeartCert CPR!

Register For a CPR Class Today

 

HeartCert CPR is your trusted training partner for CPR, ACLS, PALS, EMR and First Aid in the Twin Cities and throughout Minnesota. We offer online, night and weekend classes to fit your busy schedule!

HeartCert offers a variety of courses, including CPR/AED/First Aid and CPR/AED, Basic Life Support (BLS), Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS), Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS), and Emergency Medical Responder – First Responder (EMR). Courses and certifications from both the American Heart Association and American Red Cross are available.

Find your CPR class at any of our convenient Twin Cities locations, including our new headquarters, HeartCert CPR Eagan.

Is Heart Attack Risk Higher in Winter?

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Here in Minnesota, we’re no strangers to the extremes of winter weather. From blizzards to ice to subzero temperatures, we know how to deal with whatever comes our way. But are we taking good care of our heart and health during these cold winter months? Maybe not.

According to the American Heart Association, it isn’t just the exertion of shoveling show that can harm the heart. There are several additional factors that have been shown to impact heart health – and they affect people all over the world, not just in cold weather climates like Minnesota.

winter
photo credit: @freestocks accessed 01/09/20 via CC0

Cold Temperatures

When you step outside into cold weather, the temperature makes arteries constrict, decreasing blood flow and the delivery of oxygen. Cold weather also increases the formation of blood clots.

Flu Season

The flu spreads quickly during the winter months. Studies have found an increase in heart attacks after people come down with the flu.

Indoor Pollution

Wood-burning fireplaces create coziness and warmth. But they also significantly increase indoor air pollution, which can harm the heart.

Shorter Days

A lack of sunshine means a deficiency in vitamin D for many people. Seasonal Affective Disorder can lead to depression, which in turn can raise the risk of cardiac disease. In addition, it can be tough to find time or motivation to get out and exercise when the daylight hours are short.

Holiday Stressors

Thanksgiving, Christmas, Hanukkah, New Years and Valentine’s Day – these are all lovely celebrations, but they can be immensely stressful. Because stress impacts heart health, the holiday season has been found to raise the risk of heart attack and stroke.

Snow

Shoveling. Need we say more?

Because many of these winter heart stressors are unavoidable, it’s even more important to take good care of your health during the colder months. Eat a healthy diet, stay active, take time for self-care, get enough sleep, and, of course, learn CPR!

Register For a CPR Class Today

 

HeartCert CPR is your trusted training partner for CPR, ACLS, PALS, EMR and First Aid in the Twin Cities and throughout Minnesota. We offer online, night and weekend classes to fit your busy schedule!

HeartCert offers a variety of courses, including CPR/AED/First Aid and CPR/AED, Basic Life Support (BLS), Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS), Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS), and Emergency Medical Responder – First Responder (EMR). Courses and certifications from both the American Heart Association and American Red Cross are available.

Find your CPR class at any of our convenient Twin Cities locations, including our new headquarters, HeartCert CPR Eagan.

Eat Low-Cholesterol Food for Better Heart Health

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It has long been known that cholesterol is a major contributor to heart and vascular disease. Now, a new advisory has been issued by the American Heart Association, urging people to eat foods that are naturally lower in cholesterol and saturated fat.

cholesterol
photo credit: @ella-olsson-572949 accessed 01/09/20 via CC0

Focus on Diet, Not a Number

You might be asking: isn’t this the same advice we’ve been getting from doctors and researchers for decades? Yes, but with one significant difference. Experts no longer support a specific numerical limit on cholesterol. Rather, the advisory encourages a diet of naturally low-cholesterol foods such as fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and whole grains. Perhaps more importantly, saturated fats from full-fat dairy and meat, as well as salt, sugar and processed foods, should be avoided.

Looking for ways to reduce dietary sodium? Read our blog post!

There are a few caveats. Small amounts of specific high-cholesterol foods are safe to consume. This includes eggs (about one per day) or an equivalent of lean meat or protein.

Why is Cholesterol Harmful?

Some cholesterol is essential for the body to function. However, when too much saturated fat is consumed, an excess of cholesterol can build up in the blood. This can cause deposits to form in the arteries, potentially blocking blood flow and leading to heart attack or stroke.

How to Limit Cholesterol Intake

Experts recommend a Mediterranean-style diet, which traditionally focus on fresh produce, whole grains and healthy fats. Not sure where to start? Check out our blog post with heart-healthy eating tips.

Register For a CPR Class Today

 

HeartCert CPR is your trusted training partner for CPR, ACLS, PALS, EMR and First Aid in the Twin Cities and throughout Minnesota. We offer online, night and weekend classes to fit your busy schedule!

HeartCert offers a variety of courses, including CPR/AED/First Aid and CPR/AED, Basic Life Support (BLS), Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS), Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS), and Emergency Medical Responder – First Responder (EMR). Courses and certifications from both the American Heart Association and American Red Cross are available.

Find your CPR class at any of our convenient Twin Cities locations, including our new headquarters, HeartCert CPR Eagan.