Category: Cardiology / Heart

Exercise is important for a healthy heart all year long. But during the winter months, exercising in the cold can raise the risk of angina (chest pain) or even a heart attack for some people. HOW COLD CAN HURT HEARTS If you’re out in the cold—whether on a run or shoveling snow—the low temperatures cause your blood vessels to constrict. This means your heart gets less oxygen, just when you need even more of it due to exercise. And that can lead to dangerous results. STAY SAFE (AND IN SHAPE) If you’re heading outside for any vigorous activity this winter, follow these tips to lessen your risk: Dress in layers Always wear a hat Stay hydrated Warm up for 15 …

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All February long, we are putting our attention to the little engine that could … Our heart. This month, while we enjoy sweethearts, roses, and Valentine’s Day cards … it’s also the time to focus on the health of our anatomical heart. Did you know that heart disease and stroke are both considered types of cardiovascular disease? To dive deeper into more heart health facts, who better to speak with than a cardiologist? Fortunately, Carson Tahoe Health has several awesome ones on staff, including Dr. David Baker, MD who breaks down simple ways to make sure your internal engine is running in tip-top shape. David Baker, MD CTH: What is one thing that anyone can do to protect their heart? …

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It’s no secret we have collectively experienced unanticipated changes (and challenges) in the last year. Whether you are adjusting to working from home, having to be a parent AND teacher to your children, or unable to gather with family and friends … it’s definitely been a time to adapt and cope. Many of these coping mechanisms may have negatively affected us either emotionally or physically. With that said, it’s more important now, than ever before, to listen to your body. Heart health, whether it’s tied to your mental health or your atomical heart, is crucial to maintaining your well-being. For years, studies have shown a connection between emotions and heart health (a.k.a. the brain-heart relationship). The University of Wisconsin Health …

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The ability of smartwatches and other fitness trackers to monitor heart rate can be appealing for many athletes and, really, anyone trying to get in shape. But if you’re at risk for heart problems, could wearing a smartwatch help save your life by noticing an arrhythmia? Probably not, says David Baker, MD, Medical Director of Carson Tahoe Medical Group. “In general, the watches will detect a problem when there isn’t one,” Dr. Baker says. “There are a lot of ‘false positives’ with these devices.” But that doesn’t mean smartwatches can’t help you monitor your cardiac health, especially in consultation with your physician. “The true strength of the smartwatch is for patients to use the data to help them maximize their …

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Small changes can make a big difference in stroke prevention. 1. Eat smart. A healthy diet helps you manage your blood pressure and maintain a healthy weight, both of which can help prevent stroke. Specialists with Carson Tahoe Health Nutrition Therapies provide nutrition education and support that can help you create healthy eating habits for the long term. Try making these small, healthy changes to your diet: Add one serving of fruits or vegetables to your snacks and meals. Choose lean protein, such as chicken, turkey or fish. Include non-meat protein sources—such as tofu, nuts, or beans—for a few meals a week. Trade white breads and pastas for whole-grain options, and opt for brown rice instead of white. Season dishes with spices, herbs, …

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