The best way to avoid becoming sick this year is to get your flu vaccination, but for some people, it is more important than ever. Flu shots are important for preventing the damaging effects that a severe case of the virus can have on your health if you are managing a previous heart condition or recovering after a heart attack.
A healthy diet, regular exercise, and regular checkups with the doctor or one of our pharmacists are not the only routes to good heart health. Having the flu shot when you need to get it is also vital. At Ranchlands Pharmacy, our pharmacists will ensure you easily get your flu shot as well as be educated on the necessary information to ensure you have good heart health.
Protecting Your Heart Health From The Flu
Research has found that an individual is about six times at risk of getting a heart attack the week after receiving a flu diagnosis.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, one of the main causes of the flu is inflammation, which sets off a series of events that make heart health particularly vulnerable. It’s crucial to take precautions against the flu if you have heart problems.
A few ways that you can protect your heart health from the flu that our pharmacists at Ranchlands Pharmacy can advise on are:
Keep an eye on your heart health – If you have a heart problem, make sure you and your doctor keep in touch with each other frequently.
Avoid those who are sick – illnesses other than the flu can lead to problems with the heart. Any respiratory virus has the potential to harm you. Avoid coming into close or direct contact with somebody who is sneezing, coughing, or displaying other flu-like symptoms.
Check-in with yourself – If you start to feel like you have the flu, don’t ignore it. To find out if any medications can speed up your recovery, you can speak with your healthcare provider or one of our pharmacists at Ranchlands Pharmacy.
Maintain proper hygiene – It’s a good idea to have hand sanitizer in case you can’t wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. In addition, wearing a mask could decrease your chance of getting sick.
By getting the annual flu vaccination, you can lower your chance of contracting the flu and its related complications. The flu vaccination has long been advised for seniors and other groups at greater risk, such as those with heart problems, by our pharmacists at Ranchlands Pharmacy and other medical professionals as it can greatly benefit them.
To learn more about the flu and how you can prevent getting the flu, get in touch with our pharmacists at Ranchlands Pharmacy or read up on Health Canada’s advice on preventing the flu.