Protect Your Heart During Hurricane Season

Hurricane season brings strong winds, heavy rain, and potential power outages. While staying physically safe is crucial, prioritizing your heart health during this time is equally important.

Venkat Surakanti, M.D., FACC, FSCAI, interventional cardiologist at Baton Rouge Cardiology Center (BRCC), emphasizes the importance of proactive measures. “Hurricane preparedness goes beyond flashlights and bottled water,” he says. “People with heart conditions or stroke risk factors need to prioritize their health too, especially by ensuring they have an adequate supply of medications on hand.”

Dr. Surakanti recommends having a minimum of two to three weeks’ worth of medications readily available to manage blood pressure, diabetes, cholesterol, or other heart conditions. Delays can happen, so it’s better to be safe than sorry.

Be Prepared: A Heart-Healthy Hurricane Kit

Here’s what to include in your hurricane preparedness kit to keep your heart healthy:

• Emergency medication kit: Pack a minimum of 2-3 weeks’ worth of essential medications.
• Maintain medications: Refill prescriptions early, consider backup options with your doctor, and store medications safely.
• Important contacts: Keep a list of important phone numbers for your doctor, pharmacy, and emergency services readily available.
• Hurricane kit: Include a first-aid kit, medications, and a battery-powered radio in your hurricane preparedness kit.

Manage Stress for a Healthy Heart

Hurricanes are stressful events, and that stress can have a significant impact on your heart. “The body releases stress hormones that can cause blood pressure to rise, putting extra strain on your heart muscle,” explains Dr. Surakanti.

Here are some tips to manage stress during hurricane season:

• Stay informed: Follow reliable weather sources and evacuation orders. Having a plan can reduce anxiety.
• Practice relaxation techniques: Deep breathing exercises, meditation, and light yoga can help manage stress.
• Stay connected with loved ones: Maintaining social connections with family, friends and neighbors that can provide comfort and support.

Baton Rouge Cardiology Center: Here for You

At Baton Rouge Cardiology Center, we understand that hurricanes can disrupt your life. If you have any questions or concerns about your heart health during hurricane season, please don’t hesitate to contact our office at 225-769-0933.

Protect your heart, not just during hurricanes! Find your closest Baton Rouge Cardiology Center clinic location today to schedule an appointment, or request an appointment online. Our physicians are dedicated to helping you achieve optimal heart health through preventive care, lifestyle changes, and treatment options.