48 March 2016 www.womanthismonth.com showcase With busy day-to-day lives, most people tend to put regular health checks on a back burner. Royal Bahrain Hospital’s consultant cardiologist Dr Levent Ozdemir explains when and who should get cardiac check-ups. “Once anyone crosses 20 years of age, tests like cholesterol, sugar and blood pressure should be measured routinely even if no symptoms have been felt,” he says. “If you are leading a healthy lifestyle, then a check-up is needed once every three to five years, until the age of 40. However, over 40 years, it can be done every one to three years, according to the risks. If you are over the age of 40 and are planning on starting a new exercise programme, it is best to check your cardiac condition and have your cardiologist recommend exercises that would be good for your heart.” It might be time to see the cardiologist if you suffer from any of these symptoms: pain or discomfort in the chest that may spread into the shoulders, neck, arms or jaw; shortness of breath; nausea or vomiting; dizziness or fainting; unexplained weakness or fatigue; hoarseness of voice; difficulty swallowing; palpitations; anxiety; and low blood pressure. Moreover, there are factors that add up to increase your risk of heart disease, such as family history, meaning if anyone in your family has suffered from heart problems, then it puts you at a greater risk of cardiac illness. High cholesterol and high blood pressure also increase the possibilities of heart ailments. Other risk factors include smoking, diabetes, obesity and gum disease. Apart from family history and age, all the above factors can be controlled and modified through lifestyle changes and medication. Consult with Dr Ozdemir for more details and information on the prevention of cardiac disease. Call 17 246-800 or visit www.royalbahrainhospital.com Prevention is better than cure. Routine check-ups can significantly help prevent heart disease and are the key to living a long and healthy life. ROYAL BAHRAIN HOSPITAL MATTERS OF THE HEART Dr Levent Ozdemir Almoayyed Motors launched Ford Trucks at its showroom in Ma’ameer. Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay held a blood donation drive in coordination with Salmaniya Medical Center. The Bahrain Tourism & Exhibitions Authority in collaboration with Feld Entertainment announced the tour of Disney Live! Mickey’s Music Festival in Bahrain. The second edition of ArtBahrain, to be held under the patronage of Her Royal Highness Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa, Wife of the King of Bahrain, was announced at a press conference held at the Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay. Around Town
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