Franciscan Physician Network Indiana Heart Physicians Offers More For Holiday Heart Health

INDIANAPOLIS, Indiana - Research indicates that heart-related issues increase by 37% around Christmas and New Year's Day, a phenomenon known as "holiday heart syndrome." To help Hoosiers maintain heart health during this period, Franciscan Physician Network Indiana Heart Physicians is offering valuable tips and extended services. 

Franciscan Health Indiana Heart Physicians is here to help prioritize heart health and offers tips during the holiday season, which include the following.

• Limit Sugary Foods: Limit the consumptions of high sugar food and drinks, such as cookies, cakes, pies and sodas. High blood sugar can complicate or even lead to diabetes, a condition tough on the heart.

• Moderate Alcohol Intake: Binge drinking is taxing on the heart and can lead to heart rhythm problems or other future complications.

• Watch and limit sodium intake when partaking in holiday meals. Patients with heart failure are particularly vulnerable to sodium causing fluid retention which causes extra strain on the heart and potential hospitalization.

• Manage Stress: Take care of yourself amidst holiday stressors like family interactions, finances and travel. Don’t skip medications, as this is a common issue during the holidays.

• Stay Active: Aim for at least 150 minutes of physical activity per week. Find creative ways to stay active, such as family walks or fun activities with loved ones. On the other hand, gradually ease into new activities to avoid overexerting yourself beyond your usual limits.

• Schedule Wellness Visits: Regular check-ups and heart scans can detect heart disease sooner, providing more treatment options.

To prioritize heart health in Central Indiana, Franciscan Physician Network Indiana Heart Physicians is now offering same-day cardiology appointments, including evening and Saturday availability. The "Home for the Holidays" program aims to ensure everyone can enjoy the season with their loved ones. This service reduces wait times for new patients, decreases emergency department visits for heart-related non-emergencies, and assists with pre-operative and follow-up appointments after hospital discharge.

The expanded availability of the world-class cardiologists at Franciscan Physician Network Indiana Heart Physicians provides timely care for cardiovascular concerns such as chest pain, shortness of breath, palpitations and leg swelling.

"This holiday season, the dedicated cardiologists at Indiana Heart Physicians are here working hard to ensure you can enjoy your celebrations worry-free," said Dr. Atul Chugh, managing partner for Indiana Heart Physicians. "By addressing symptoms early, we can help prevent hospitalizations and serious cardiovascular events. Our team is committed to keeping you healthy, so you can cherish the holidays this year and for many more to come."

Franciscan Health Indianapolis has been ranked No. 1 in the State of Indiana by Healthgrades for cardiology, two years in a row.

To schedule an appointment at Franciscan Physician Network Indiana Heart Physicians, call 317-893-1900.