SLHV

09/02/2025

🫀September is Atrial Fibrillation (AFib) Awareness Month, the most common heart rhythm disorder that affects millions of people every year. Did you know that 1 in 4 adults over age 40 will develop AFib in their lifetime? The challenge is that many don’t recognize the symptoms or know how treatable it can be with the right care.

This month, we’re raising awareness so more people can:
💡 Recognize the signs
🛡️ Take steps toward prevention
❤️ Explore treatment options that improve quality of life

Knowledge is power and when it comes to AFib, it could be lifesaving.

📚 Learn more from the Heart Rhythm Society: https://www.hrsonline.org/afib-awareness-month/

Raising Awareness. Improving Care. Changing Lives. September is Atrial Fibrillation (AFib) Awareness Month - a time to shine a spotlight on the most common heart rhythm disorder, affecting millions worldwide. AFib affects 1 in 4 adults over 40, yet many don't know the symptoms or treatment options.....

08/29/2025

🎉 With Labor Day weekend just around the corner, let’s talk heart-smart celebrations!

While you enjoy grilling, gatherings, and good times, here are a few easy ways to keep your heart happy:

☀️ Beat the heat & hydrate - Whether you’re out tailgating or watching fireworks, staying hydrated helps your heart stay strong.
🥤 Choose water first - Skip sugary drinks and let hydration lead the way for better energy and heart wellness.
🍔 Mindful snacking - If you’re hosting or attending a cookout, balance the spreads with heart-conscious options like grilled veggies or fruit platters.
🚶‍♂️ Make a walking pact - Turn post-meal lounging into a quick family stroll to keep blood flowing and spirits high.
😌 Take a moment - A few deep breaths on a quiet break can help manage stress and support your heart all weekend long.

Here's to enjoying the holiday: deliciously, safely, and heart-first. Wishing you a rejuvenating and heart-healthy weekend! ❤️

08/27/2025

📚Back-to-school season isn’t just about sharpened pencils and fresh notebooks, it’s also the perfect time to reset routines for healthier hearts!

August is both Summer Sun Safety Month and National Wellness Month, reminding us that small, everyday habits can make a big difference for the whole family’s heart health:

☀️ Stay sun-safe and hydrate often. Heat and dehydration can raise your heart rate and stress your cardiovascular system.
🚶‍♀️ Get moving together before the school rush, even if it’s just a short walk or bike ride.
🍎 Build routines around nutrition, sleep, and stress management to set kids (and parents!) up for long-term heart health.

A healthy start to the school year begins with simple choices, because a heart-healthy family is a stronger family. 💙

08/20/2025

🎉 We’re thrilled to share some exciting news! 🎉

Four of our incredible physicians, Dr. Robert Armbruster, Dr. George Kichura, Dr. Toniya Singh, and Dr. Gil Vardi, have been named to the St. Louis Magazine Top Doctors Guide, in partnership with Castle Connolly, a nationally recognized, peer-nominated honor.

These outstanding providers represent the best of SLHV: bringing world-class cardiology care, deep expertise, and true compassion to every patient, every day.

Please join us in congratulating them on this well-earned recognition, we’re proud, grateful, and lucky to have them on our team! ❤️

08/18/2025

🧠 Did you know your carotid arteries are the main highways that carry blood to your brain? When plaque builds up inside them, it can narrow the arteries and increase your risk of stroke; this is called carotid artery disease (CAD).

The tricky part? CAD often doesn’t cause symptoms until it’s serious. In fact, it’s estimated to play a role in up to one-third of all strokes. That’s why early detection through screening is so important: it can truly be lifesaving. 💙

At SLHV, we’re here to help you stay a step ahead when it comes to cardiovascular health.

Want to learn more about carotid artery disease? Check out this helpful resource from the Society for Vascular Surgery:
https://vascular.org/your-vascular-health/vascular-conditions/common-conditions/carotid-artery-disease

Carotid artery disease (CAD) occurs when the carotid arteries become narrowed or blocked due to plaque buildup.

08/11/2025

Water is not just for quenching thirst 💧 It is essential for your heart too! When you are hydrated, your heart can pump blood more easily and your muscles work more efficiently. Aim for around eight cups of water a day and even more when it is hot or you are active.

Learn how hydration supports heart health here: https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/fitness/fitness-basics/staying-hydrated-staying-healthy

When the temperatures rise, getting enough water is important whether you’re playing sports.

08/06/2025

💉 August is National Immunization Awareness Month!

Staying up to date on vaccines isn’t just for kids, it’s vital for heart health, especially if you have heart disease or related conditions. The American Heart Association and CDC emphasize how vaccines, like those for flu and pneumonia, can help protect people with cardiovascular issues.

Learn more about how vaccines support heart health from the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases: https://www.nfid.org/immunization/vaccines-and-heart-disease/?fbclid=IwY2xjawMAPqBleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHgoEKmnpb8_nOi5qQUoWNSpVINjI0_2eZ2Gn4MiqbzGin5CAWCBAZ4yLp_pE_aem_UeOe0xmOySYmod6ndRTcWg

If you have heart disease, staying up to date with recommended vaccines is as important to your health as diet and exercise

07/31/2025

We are excited to announce Shamell Boykin, Medication Access Coordinator, is the Employee of the Month for July 2025!

Shamell has become an invaluable part of our team in a short time and has consistently demonstrated outstanding qualities that truly make her stand out. Her ability to be a resource to her colleagues is greatly appreciated, and her contributions have helped make a positive impact across the board. Her work ethic, positive attitude, and willingness to support others have earned her well-deserved recognition.

Please join us in celebrating Shamell’s hard work and achievements. We are lucky to have her on the team!

Keep up the amazing work, Shamell! 🌟

07/25/2025

When you care for your heart, you're really caring for your whole body. ❤️

According to the American Heart Association, adults who follow more of the Life’s Simple 7, now expanded to Life’s Essential 8, enjoy better health beyond just their heart. That includes healthier lungs, sharper thinking, stronger eyesight, and even a reduced cancer risk!

Here’s a reminder of Life’s Essential 8:
🍎 Eat better
🏃 Stay active
🚭 Don’t smoke
⚖️ Keep a healthy weight
🩺 Manage blood pressure
🧬 Control cholesterol
🍬 Maintain healthy blood sugar
😴 Get quality sleep

Small changes in any of these areas can have a BIG impact. 📚 Learn more at: https://newsroom.heart.org/news/adults-with-heart-healthy-metrics-had-better-health-from-head-to-toe?utm_source=chatgpt.com

Research Highlights: A review of a decade of studies on cardiovascular health found that the benefits of ideal heart health extend beyond the cardiovascular system and are associated with improved function throughout the body. Compared with poor...

07/21/2025

☀️ Summer Heat & Your Heart – Stay Safe! 🫀

Summer is here, and rising temperatures aren’t just uncomfortable— they can stress your heart, especially for those with existing cardiovascular conditions. Here's how to stay safe when the heat climbs:

💧 Hydrate smart with water or electrolyte drinks, don’t wait until you’re thirsty
🌤️ Avoid peak sun, stay in shade or coolest part of the house between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
👕 Dress light in breathable, light-colored clothing
⏸️ Rest often, take frequent breaks if you're spending time outdoors
🩺 Recognize warning signs like chest tightness, dizziness, shortness of breath, or extreme fatigue

Make heart safety part of your summer plans! Share this post to spread awareness. 💙

Check out the American Heart Association’s tips for staying heart-safe in the heat: https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/consumer-healthcare/what-is-cardiovascular-disease/protect-your-heart-in-the-heat

Hot Weather and heart disease can be a dangerous combination. The American Heart Association explains the symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke you should know if you have a cardiovascular condition before spending a day in the sun.

07/11/2025

We're excited to unveil the newly renovated Christian Hospital office at SLHV!

The updated space features a more open and inviting layout, a redesigned front desk, and brand-new furniture in the waiting area—enhancing both comfort and functionality for our patients. Completed on July 3rd, this renovation reflects our continued commitment to providing a welcoming environment while delivering top-tier cardiovascular care.

07/08/2025

🌿 Get Moving in July! 🌿

July is National Recreation and Parks Month, and what better time to take advantage of local parks, trails, and green spaces? Regular physical activity boosts heart health—helping to lower blood pressure, reduce stress, and improve circulation.

🚶‍♀️ Take a brisk walk on a nearby trail
🚴‍♂️ Enjoy a family bike ride or picnic in the park
🧘‍♂️ Try activities like tai chi, yoga, or stretch sessions outdoors

Try gentle activities like tai chi, yoga, or stretch sessions outdoors

Whether it’s 10 minutes or an hour, every bit of movement counts—especially in summer. Let’s spend time outside this month and give our hearts a little extra love.