American Heart Month: The impact of heart health on wound healing

Feb 23, 2019

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By Brianne Hankins, RN, Clinical Nurse Manager for William Newton Wound Healing

Heart health is important to the body’s overall wellness and function. The heart circulates oxygen and nutrient-rich blood throughout the body. When the heart is not working properly, just about every function is affected and that includes wound healing. An alarming 33 percent of Americans, more than 92 million people, suffer from a cardiovascular disease that could inhibit their body’s healing response.

Learn the facts and take actions to prevent conditions that may affect the health of your heart and proper wound healing.

6.7 million people are currently living with a chronic wound. Cardiovascular diseases like coronary artery disease, peripheral arterial disease (PAD) and other issues with the heart and vessels can cause obstructions that hinder the flow of blood, oxygen and nutrition to the wound. Cholesterol, diabetes, stroke and high blood pressure can also affect the health of your heart.

To avoid these conditions, it is important to keep your heart healthy. The William Newton Wound Healing & Hyperbaric Center offers the following ti****ps to live a heart healthy life.

• Live an active lifestyle with 30 minutes of exercise on most days.
• Don’t smoke or use tobacco of any kind as it is one of the most significant risk factors for developing heart disease.
• Eat a diet that is heart-healthy. This includes lots of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans and other low-fat sources of protein.
• Maintain a healthy weight. Obesity can lead to high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes. All of these chronic conditions can lead to heart disease.
• Ensure you get quality sleep by making it a priority in your life. Most adults need seven to nine hours of sleep each night.
• Manage your stress in a healthy way with positive self-talk, using stress stoppers, doing things you enjoy, and relaxing on a regular basis.
• See your healthcare provider for regular screenings. This includes blood pressure, cholesterol and diabetes screenings.

For more information about how your heart health can affect wound healing, contact at the William Newton Wound Healing & Hyperbaric Center at 620-222-6205.

Editor's Note: Bri Hankins, RN, William Newton Wound Healing & Hyperbarics Center Clinical Nurse Manager, works directly with patients in managing chronic, non-healing wounds. If you have comments or story ideas, call 620-221-2300, ext. 1113.

The "Weekend Check-Up" is a regular health column published in the Cowley Courier Traveler penned by employees and friends of William Newton Hospital.