Roaring Fork Valley: Heart Health Focus During American Heart Month

Dr. Leo Simpson is pictured near the Valley View’s Heart and Vascular Center within the Glenwood Springs hospital. Taylor Cramer/Post Independent

February is nationally designated as American Heart Month, prompting local cardiologists to emphasize the importance of cardiovascular wellness for residents of the Roaring Fork Valley. This is particularly crucial in a mountainous region where the signs of heart issues can be easily dismissed or misinterpreted.

Prioritizing Heart Health in the Mountains

Dr. Leo Simpson, an interventional and heart failure cardiologist at Valley View’s Heart and Vascular Center, notes the diverse spectrum of cardiac ailments observed throughout the valley. These range from coronary artery disease to more complex structural and electrical problems within the heart. He believes the prevalence of heart disease in the area warrants focused attention, especially considering potential contributing factors like altitude and hypoxia.

Simpson further explained that heart disease often manifests differently than commonly perceived. Active individuals, accustomed to the physical demands of hiking, skiing, and biking at elevation, may unknowingly mask early symptoms. He specifically highlighted that women often experience atypical presentations of heart problems, making early diagnosis more challenging.

A Patient’s Story: Proactive Cardiac Care

A recent case at Valley View illustrates the importance of proactive heart care. Paul Schroeder, a 90-year-old patient, received a diagnosis of a significant heart rhythm disturbance by a cardiologist in Minnesota, leading to a recommendation for a pacemaker. Schroeder, who enjoys an active lifestyle including hiking and skiing and splits his time between Minnesota and Colorado, opted to postpone the procedure until he returned to the Roaring Fork Valley.

In December, Dr. Simpson successfully implanted a dual-chamber pacemaker at Valley View’s Heart and Vascular Center, just weeks before Schroeder’s wedding. Remarkably, Schroeder reported minimal symptoms and maintained his activity level prior to the intervention. He stated, “I still didn’t think I really even needed a pacemaker,” but acknowledged the potential for future complications if left unaddressed.

Recognizing Symptoms and Advancements in Treatment

Schroeder’s positive outcome and swift recovery allowed him to participate fully in his wedding and resume his daily routines with improved confidence. He praised the professionalism and care provided by the Valley View team, stating, “I probably would have been in a box instead of standing at my wedding.” His experience underscores a pattern Simpson frequently observes: mountain residents often delay seeking medical attention, attributing subtle symptoms to their active lifestyles.

Simpson noted that individuals in the region tend to present with heart conditions at a later stage due to their bodies’ ability to compensate for prolonged periods. He also indicated a higher incidence of conditions like atrial fibrillation, heart failure, and pulmonary hypertension at higher altitudes. Modern advancements in cardiology have dramatically improved treatment options for heart failure, with new medications and devices enabling patients to regain functionality and maintain active lives.

Prevention and Early Detection are Key

“We now have several drug classes and devices that can help the heart recover function,” Simpson explained. “Many patients can return to near-normal heart function and live normal lives.” However, he stressed that preventative measures and early detection remain paramount. Factors such as smoking, substance abuse, uncontrolled high blood pressure, and obesity significantly contribute to the development of long-term heart problems.

Simpson recommends a minimum of 30 to 45 minutes of daily exercise, five days a week, incorporating both aerobic activity and light strength training. He also advocates for a Mediterranean-style diet rich in fish, fruits, vegetables, and nuts. He cautioned against complacency, even among those who consider themselves healthy and active, emphasizing the importance of regular medical checkups and vigilance regarding any changes in bodily functions. “The earlier we catch heart disease, the more we can do to treat it and help people live normal lives,” he concluded.