The staff at the Yoakum Community Hospital Wound Healing and Hyperbaric Center are celebrating American Heart Month by educating their community about good cardiovascular care and tips to keep hearts healthy year-round.
Every day, more than half a million Americans are diagnosed with cardiovascular diseases like peripheral artery disease, a condition that compromises leg circulation and results in non-healing wounds. A healthy heart helps keep oxygen and nutrient-rich blood flowing through the body, a vital component of wound healing.
“Any disease that disrupts blood circulation affects how long it will take for a wound to heal,” said Karen Barber, Chief Executive Officer. “Poor heart health means poor wound healing rates.”
The YCH Wound Healing and Hyperbaric Center suggests that patients do the following to be heart healthy:
- exercise at least 30 minutes a day
- if a smoker, quit
- eat a healthy amount of fruits and veggies instead of processed foods like potato chips
- get adequate sleep
- engage in activities to relieve stress, such as meditation
The wound care center at Yoakum Community Hospital provides a comprehensive approach to treating patients with non-healing wounds. The team features clinicians with advanced training in wound care and hyperbaric medicine.
The YCH Wound Healing and Hyperbaric Center is open Monday thru Friday. For more information about the wound care center or to schedule an appointment, call 877.295.2273.
