Heart Health

Life throws Peter a curve ball

Peter worked late one night and had dinner just before going to bed. He had trouble sleeping because of heartburn, and the feeling was still there the following morning. He went to see Michael, his pharmacist, to get some advice. Michael took the time to ask the right questions and then took his blood pressure. Turned out it was off the charts. Peter was showing signs of a heart attack! Watch the video to find out what happened to him.

Peter's Story

Heart Disease is Common but Manageable


Did you know over 2.4 million Canadians aged 20 and over live with diagnosed heart disease? The good news is that heart disease is manageable. Be open to adopting lifestyle changes and stick to any prescribed medication. Don’t hesitate to ask your pharmacist to check your blood pressure and to help identify symptoms.

By managing conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes and high cholesterol, you can actually reduce your risk of heart disease.

Remember: Listen Closely to Your Body


“Peter had underestimated his symptoms,” said Michael. “If we hadn’t talked about the way he felt, he probably would’ve taken an antacid and walked away… and who knows what would’ve happened then? Like many patients, he thought it was nothing. He wanted to go to work and get on with his day.

A good piece of advice is to ask questions, and listen to your body—don’t just brush off symptoms.”

Getting Better: An Ongoing Process


Take your meds and understand them. They can make you feel better, help your heart work better, and help you live longer. Make your medication routine as simple as you can. For example, synchronize your prescription renewals and don’t hesitate to ask your pharmacist for a pill organizer or dispenser. Be sure to raise any concerns about side effects with your pharmacist. They will be able to propose solutions, and of course, give you good advice.

“I came out of the hospital with lots of prescriptions and I didn’t fully understand them. Mike has really been able to steer me in the right direction,” said Peter. “He explained the benefits and side effects of my medication, and suggested healthy lifestyle changes. We’ve talked a lot and we touch base regularly. All of this is helping me to live better with my condition.”

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