Silver Cross Heart Screening Offers Peace of Mind

By Tracy Simons | Silver Cross Hospital

Heart disease is the No. 1 killer of women in the United States. More than twice as many women die of heart disease and stroke than all forms of cancer combined – even breast! For 52-year-old Rose Stroemer, she wanted to avoid becoming another statistic especially since she has a history of heart disease in her family.

So she decided to get a Baseline Risk Cardiac Assessment at Silver Cross Hospital.

“Based on my family history, I knew I had to take care of my heart. When I learned about Silver Cross’ baseline cardiac risk assessment for only $40, I couldn’t believe how affordable the screening was and that it included so much evaluation. So I decided to schedule my screening,” said the Joliet resident.

Stroemer’s EKG showed slightly elevated numbers, which prompted her physician to order a cardiac nuclear stress test. Fortunately, this follow-up test showed no problems, however, Stroemer will continue to monitor her heart with an annual heart check-up.

“Since heart disease is more likely to go undetected in women than in men, area women should take care of themselves by getting a cardiac screening,” said Mary Tonelli, R.N., cardiac nurse at Silver Cross Hospital. “Rose’s experience is an example of importance of having a baseline cardiac screening.”

“I’m so thankful to find out that my heart is okay. I encourage others to get a screening. For just $40, you can have peace of mind. Plus the test is painless and the nurses are extremely competent and very nice,” said Stroemer.

Take Care of Your Heart with a Cardiac Risk Assessment

Keep your heart running smoothly with a Baseline Cardiac Risk Assessment. The $40 screening includes measurements of total cholesterol including HDL and LDL levels, blood glucose level, triglyceride level, blood pressure and body fat; 12-lead EKG, health and lifestyle evaluation, and a personal phone consultation with a registered cardiac nurse to review results and answer questions. A 12-hour fast is required.

Those who call (815) 300-7076 to schedule an appointment at the Silver Cross Health Center, 12701 W. 143rdSt., Homer Glen or Silver Cross Hospital, 1900 Silver Cross Blvd., New Lenox will receive an I Matter card at the time of their screening which can be used for valuable discounts at over 100 local businesses. Cash, check or credit card will be accepted at time of appointment. Insurance will not be billed.

6 Tips to Avoid Heart Disease

Fortunately, there are ways to lower your risks for heart disease thru these simple steps:

• Exercise: According to the American Heart Association, having high blood pressure is one of the major risk factors. By exercising 20 to 30 minutes several days a week can lower your blood pressure and prevent heart disease.

• Prevent and Control High Blood Pressure and Cholesterol: Prevention and treatments for high blood pressure and cholesterol includes eating a diet low in saturated fat and cholesterol and high in fiber, keeping a healthy weight, and getting regular exercise.

• Control Blood Sugar and Diabetes: Diabetes significantly increases your risk for heart disease. Maintaining a normal blood sugar most of the time can help reduce that risk.

• Stop Smoking: People who smoke are four times more likely to develop coronary heart disease than nonsmokers. The good news is, no matter how long or how much you’ve smoked, if you quit, your risk for heart disease decreases soon after.

• Maintain a Healthy Weight: People who have excess body fat-especially at the waist-are more likely to develop heart disease even if there are no other risk factors. Eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, low-fat dairy and lean protein can help you lose weight. Avoiding trans-fat and limiting saturated fat can directly reduce heart disease risks.

• De-Stress: Putting yourself on your “to do” list and finding ways to defuse stress will help slow your breathing and heart rate as you lower your blood pressure.

Cardiac Services at Silver Cross

Silver Cross Hospital brings together advanced technology and the finest medical professionals to create an innovative and efficient approach to heart care. From prevention programs to aftercare, Silver Cross provides patients with everything they need to maintain a healthy heart. Cardiac patients receive expert education, diagnosis, treatment, professional consultation and rehabilitative care. From state-of-the-art Cardiac Catheterization suites to accredited programs for Echocardiography and Cardiac Rehab, Silver Cross offers a wide range of comprehensive services to expertly diagnose, treat, and rehabilitate heart disease. For a referral to a cardiologist on staff at Silver Cross, call 1-888-660-HEAL (4325) or visit www.silvercross.org.