Listen to Your Heart: Why Small Changes and a Simple EKG Matter
An electrocardiogram (EKG) is a quick, painless, and non-invasive test that can reveal valuable information about your heart health. It takes about five minutes to complete and doesn’t require needles or a treadmill. Understanding your heart’s signals, even subtle ones, is crucial for maintaining overall well-being, especially when considering changes to your activity level.
The Heart’s Subtle Signals
Often, our bodies provide early warning signs that something isn’t quite right. These can manifest as seemingly minor changes like chest tightness, palpitations, or dizziness. You might also notice an irregular, fast, or slow heartbeat, or experience shortness of breath that feels new or disproportionate to your activity. It’s easy to dismiss these as stress, being out of shape, or simply the demands of a busy life.
“The heart is normally talking to us. It sometimes whispers these small signs, but we often avoid them because we’re busy, or we have priorities like family and work, but it’s important to listen to the signs and red flags,” says Ivan Mendoza, MD, medical director and chief of cardiology at Jackson West Medical Center.
The Value of a Heart Evaluation and EKG
A comprehensive heart evaluation, available through your primary care physician or at facilities like the Jackson Heart Institute, can help identify potential issues. A key component of this evaluation is often an EKG. This test uses small electrodes placed on the skin to capture and analyze the heart’s electrical signals.
While physical exams are important, the heart can present complex conditions that aren’t always obvious during a routine checkup. An EKG can detect certain heart rhythm or electrical issues that might otherwise proceed unnoticed.
“An EKG can help identify certain heart rhythm or electrical issues that may not be obvious on an exam alone,” Dr. Mendoza explains. “An EKG is specific, and can catch common and rare conditions that can increase your risk of heart attack, stroke, and sudden cardiac arrest.”
Don’t Delay Movement – Evaluate First
Dr. Mendoza emphasizes that getting checked shouldn’t deter you from being active. In fact, he encourages it.
“It’s a decent thing for you to start moving. Even exercising for 10 to 15 minutes a day, five days a week, will have a tremendous impact on your body and health,” he says. “the EKG test can ensure everything is okay before you start. I can’t stress enough that this isn’t just for athletes, but for everyone.”
The Power of Movement
Once heart health is evaluated, incorporating regular physical activity is paramount. Even modest activity, such as walking for 15 minutes daily or exercising for 30 minutes three to four times a week, can significantly strengthen your heart and bones, improve joint health, and boost mental well-being, reducing anxiety and depression. Regular movement also lowers the risk of heart disease and can add years to your life.
“There is no drug or medicine that’s better than physical activity and exercise,” Dr. Mendoza states. “It doesn’t matter how old you are or how long you’ve been a couch potato. Just start – do something, and you’ll see the health benefits from it. Actually, those who start moving more after not exercising at all will see the most benefits sooner.”
Beyond Exercise: Holistic Heart Health
Maintaining a heart-healthy lifestyle extends beyond exercise. Adopting a nutritious diet, such as the Mediterranean or DASH diet, is crucial. Avoiding smoking or vaping and prioritizing seven to nine hours of sleep each night are also essential components of a heart-healthy routine.
Listen and Take Action
During American Heart Month and throughout the year, the message is clear: pay attention to the subtle changes your body signals, seek evaluation when something feels off, and prioritize preventative screenings. Give your heart the care it needs to support a long and healthy life.
To schedule an appointment with a cardiologist at Jackson Heart Institute, visit cardiology.jacksonhealth.org. You can also obtain an EKG test at one of the UHealth Jackson Urgent Care Centers – for more information, visit https://jacksonurgentcare.com/lab-testing/ekg/.