That first blast of winter air might feel invigorating, but your cardiovascular system is working harder than you realize. Within seconds of stepping into freezing temperatures, your blood vessels constrict to preserve body heat, raising your blood pressure and increasing the workload on your heart.
Category Archives: Cardiovascular Care
Small Changes That Make a Big Impact on Your Blood Pressure
High blood pressure, or hypertension, often develops without warning signs, but its effects on the heart, brain and kidneys can be serious over time. The good news is that even small, consistent lifestyle changes can lead to meaningful improvements.
A Musician’s Second Beat
John Berenzy experienced a life-altering cardiac event in August 2025 after returning home from New Orleans following the birth of his grandson, Sebastian. Mistaking severe chest pain for heartburn, John sought help from a neighbor, collapsing at their door. Emergency responders quickly arrived on the scene. They administered nitroglycerin and treated a complete blockage inContinue reading “A Musician’s Second Beat”
A Heart Reimagined
Four years ago, Jennifer Dering was at the peak of her strength, a professional athlete, engineer, wife, and mother, training for a racquetball tournament when she suddenly began struggling to breathe. Over the course of 14 medical visits, she was misdiagnosed repeatedly. Doctors told her it was hormones, asthma, even “vocal cord dysfunction.” But JenniferContinue reading “A Heart Reimagined”
A Firefighter’s Second Chance
When Assistant Fire Chief John Lucariello of the Rombout Fire Company collapsed while responding to an early morning fire in Fishkill, NY, his fellow firefighters and paramedics rushed to his side. Despite repeated attempts to restart his heart, John was pronounced dead at the scene. Then, just minutes later, something extraordinary happened: his heart beganContinue reading “A Firefighter’s Second Chance”
Listen to Your Heart: The Hidden Risks of Women’s Fall Routines
Fall routines can mask heart symptoms in women, like fatigue, shortness of breath or chest discomfort. Don’t ignore early signs. Prioritize check-ups and self-care. WMCHealth offers support and heart health guidance.
Timing is Everything: Study Links Later Menopause to Better Heart Health
A study in Circulation Research shows women who reach menopause at 55+ may have better heart health due to lasting vascular benefits. WMCHealth experts recommend monitoring key markers, healthy lifestyle habits, and personalized care to protect heart health.
Grill Masters’ Heart-Smart Summer: Barbecue Without the Bypass
You can enjoy a heart-healthy barbecue by making simple swaps, like lean meats, grilled veggies, lighter sides, and low-sugar drinks, without sacrificing flavor. For personalized heart health support, schedule a visit with a WMCHealth heart specialist today.
From Dad Bod to Rad Bod: Fitness After 40
As men age, staying fit requires a more balanced approach that includes strength training, cardio, flexibility, and rest to maintain muscle and overall health. WMCHealth’s primary care providers can help you create a safe, effective fitness plan tailored to your goals, schedule a visit to get started.
Women’s Heart Health: Understanding Greater Susceptibility to Lifestyle Risks
Women face unique heart health risks, especially as they age. Research shows that women in poor health have nearly five times the risk of heart disease compared to those in ideal health. At WMCHealth, specialists highlight the impact of hormonal changes during menopause, lifestyle factors like stress and inactivity, and social determinants such as income and access to care. Symptoms in women often differ from men and can be misdiagnosed, making education and prevention critical. Regular checkups, staying active, and managing blood pressure are key steps women can take to protect their heart health. Learn more or schedule an appointment at WMCHealth.