We sat down with our Consultant Cardiologist Dr Sultan to talk about the importance of consistently and continuously prioritising our heart health.
He places specific emphasis on the critical importance of self-awareness and preventive measures in maintaining good cardiovascular health: “Let me draw on my own experience: I had a heart attack that I initially dismissed as indigestion. Despite being a medical professional, I delayed seeking care, which just goes to show the importance of listening to one’s body and seeking help when symptoms arise. I urge you not to shy away from healthcare services out of fear of burdening the system, as early intervention can prevent complications and save lives.”
Using his expertise and personal experiences, here are Dr Sultan’s tips to encourage healthier long-term lifestyle habits:
Raise self-awareness
“Self-awareness is crucial in the creation of healthy habits and avoiding unhealthy habits. I find that modern-day lifestyles have led to an increase in the neglect of personal health as individuals tend to prioritise work and family over their own health. Therefore, I believe that apart from practicing self-awareness by keeping an eye on your own health and well being, persistent public messaging to create health awareness is vital to encourage individuals to take proactive steps in acknowledging potential health risks.”
Any exercise is good exercise
“Contrary to popular belief, staying fit doesn’t require endless hours at the gym or rigorous marathon training. I believe that simple and consistent activity is key in allowing you to develop a habit of regular physical activity, no matter how modest. By dedicating just 15-20 minutes of time per day to simple exercises such as squats, resistance band training, or treadmill workouts, you can significantly strengthen your core muscles and enhance your overall well-being.
“For example, for those dealing with obesity - a condition affecting over 20% of adults in the UK - you can start with low-impact exercises like walking, swimming, or chair workouts. These activities can reduce the strain on joints while simultaneously initiating weight loss.”
Avoid unhealthy habits
“I strongly advise against smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, but if consuming alcohol, I recommend adhering to the social limits of 14 units per week. I also think it’s important to be conscious in managing obesity as many individuals underestimate their weight and its associated risks with studies showing that obesity, unmanaged, can increase the likelihood of developing conditions like hypertension, fatty liver disease, and even cancer.”
Start small for lasting impact
“I advise starting small and not attempting any extreme or abrupt lifestyle changes, as it can often lead to emotional fatigue and feelings of failure. Instead, I recommend making gradual and sustainable adjustments tailored to your unique and individual circumstances. For example, for those with a family history of chronic diseases or conditions like POTS, regular health screenings and consultations with healthcare providers can help identify risks early and provide guidance on effective management strategies.”
Understand the impact of POTS
“Understanding your symptoms and recognising not commonly known syndromes such as Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) is incredibly important when it comes to prioritising your health. POTS is characterised by an abnormal increase in heart rate upon standing. This often results in dizziness, fainting, and fatigue, particularly among young adults and those with underlying conditions like obesity. Incorporating tailored exercise regimens, such as seated or reclining exercises to improve cardiovascular function, can be beneficial for POTS patients. Alongside proper hydration and dietary changes, these interventions can help manage symptoms effectively.”
Prevention through routine care
“Preventive health care should be a cornerstone of daily life. I always tell patients to look upon the human body as if it were a machine that requires regular ‘maintenance’. To keep up with the ‘maintenance’ of your body, I recommend implementing daily habits such as monitoring sleep patterns, dietary habits, physical activity, and stress management as part of a daily routine. For example, individuals managing obesity can benefit from keeping a food diary and using wearable fitness trackers to monitor progress. Similarly, POTS patients should ensure they maintain electrolyte balance and avoid prolonged periods of standing.”
If you are looking to make your health a priority and want access to a quick private appointment with an expert, contact us today by calling 0161 832 2111 or enquire online.
