The Impact of Heart Health on Wound Healing

WATERBURY, Conn. -- An alarming 33 percent of Americans currently suffer from cardiovascular disease. Throughout Heart Health Awareness Month, The Saint Mary’s Wound Healing Center, a member of the Healogics network, will work to spread awareness about how cardiovascular diseases can affect the wound healing process. Chronic wounds affect approximately 6.7 million people in the United States and, if left untreated, an unhealed wound on the foot or leg can lead to a diminished quality of life and possible amputation. As many as 82 percent of leg amputations are due to poor circulation of the affected limb.

Cardiovascular diseases such as coronary artery disease, peripheral artery disease, strokes, arrhythmia, vascular disease and other issues with the heart and vessels can causes blockages that obstruct the flow of blood needed for proper wound healing. Differentiating between arterial and venous ulcers may be challenging, but a correct diagnosis can result in optimal treatment options. Careful vascular assessment is key when a patient presents with a lower extremity ulcer as arterial disease is generally contraindicative to compression therapy, the cornerstone of venous ulcer management.

“General heart health is important for everyone,” says Dr. Peter Jacoby, medical director for the Wound Healing Center at Saint Mary’s Hospital. “It reduces the risk of vascular disease, decreased problems with venous returns so you don’t have venous insufficiency which helps wounds heal.”

The Saint Mary’s Wound Healing Center, offers the following tips to live a heart healthy life.

• Live an active lifestyle with 30 minutes of exercise on most
• Don’t smoke or use tobacco of any kind as it is one of the most significant risk factors for developing heart
• Eat a diet that is heart-healthy. This includes lots of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans and other low-fat sources of
• Maintain a healthy weight. Obesity can lead to high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes. All of these chronic conditions can lead to heart
• Ensure you get quality sleep by making it a priority in your life. Most adults need seven to nine hours of sleep each
• Manage your stress in a healthy way with positive self-talk, using stress stoppers, doing things you enjoy, and relaxing on a regular
• See your healthcare provider for regular screenings. This includes blood pressure, cholesterol and diabetes
• Take off your socks at your next checkup and speak up about any problems with your legs or feet.

If you or a loved one is living with a wound and cardiovascular disease, contact The Saint Mary’s Wound Healing Center at 56 Franklin St, Waterbury Ct. 06706 or 203-709-3000.