Community Corner

Are You at Risk for Heart Disease?

Silver Cross Hospital is offering discounted heart screenings throughout February and a "Girl Talk" for women to learn more about heart disease.

By Tracy Simons, Silver Cross Hospital

Heart disease remains the No. 1 cause of death for both men and women in the U.S., claiming approximately 380,000 Americans a year. In fact, heart disease is so prevalent that it strikes about once every 34 seconds.

“This is why it is so important for individuals to learn if they are at risk or have symptoms so you can make changes in your lifestyle and take proper precautions to prevent heart attack and other complications,” said Dr. Kathleen Drinan, cardiologist on staff at Silver Cross Hospital. 

Screenings, Sweets and Savings

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In recognition of National Heart Month, Silver Cross Hospital is offering discounted screenings for individuals and couples for those who call during February to schedule an appointment. In addition, patients will receive a complimentary box of Dan’s Homemade Candies as well as valuable discounts at Orland Square Mall and other local business. 

A sponsored article by Silver Cross Hospital.

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Two different tests are available at the Hospital located at I-355 and Route 6 New Lenox and the Silver Cross Health Center at 143rd St. and Bell Rd. in Homer Glen. 

  • Baseline Cardiac Risk Assessment includes measurements of total cholesterol including HDL and LDL levels, blood glucose level, triglyceride level, blood pressure and body fat; 12-lead EKG, health and lifestyle evaluation, and a personal phone consultation with a registered cardiac nurse to review results and answer questions. A 12-hour fast is required. Cost is $75 per couple or $40 per person.
  • Calcium Artery Scoring uses a high speed CT scanner to measure calcium deposits in the coronary arteries to determine your risk of having a heart attack. Calcium artery scoring is ideal for men over age 45 and women over age 55 who smoke, have high blood pressure, high cholesterol or a family history of premature coronary artery disease. Cost is $300 per couple or $200 per person.

Cash, check or credit/debit card will be accepted at time of appointment.  Insurance will not be billed. Call 815-300-7076 to schedule an appointment. 

Women Should Take Note

Heart disease has taken over as the number one killer of women. While one in 31 American women dies from breast cancer each year, heart disease claims the lives of one in three. That’s roughly one death each minute. But it doesn’t affect all women alike, and the warning signs for women aren’t the same as in men.

“There are a several misconceptions about heart disease in women, and they could be putting you at risk,” Dr. Drinan said. “Many of my patients believe that the telltale sign of a heart attack is extreme chest pain. But in reality, women are somewhat more likely to experience shortness of breath, nausea/vomiting and back or jaw pain.”

Other symptoms women should look out for are dizziness, lightheadedness or fainting, pain in the lower chest or upper abdomen and extreme fatigue.

To learn more about the facts of heart disease and what women need to do to prevent heart attacks, join cardiologist Kathleen Drinan, D.O. for a “Girl Talk” on Wednesday. Feb. 5. The free program will be held in the Silver Cross Hospital Conference Center, Pavilion A, 1890 Silver Cross Blvd., New Lenox. Register to attend at www.silvercross.org or call 1-888-660-HEAL (4325).

About Silver Cross Hospital

Silver Cross Hospital is a not-for-profit health care provider serving Will County and southwest suburban communities since 1895. Silver Cross has been recognized as a Thomson Reuters 100 Top Hospitals National Award winner for seven consecutive years and as a Hospital of Choice by the American Alliance of Healthcare Providers. With over 3,500 employees, physicians and volunteers, Silver Cross operates a new 289-bed acute care hospital at I-355 and Route 6 in New Lenox and 8 satellite facilities providing outpatient services and physician offices. 

To learn more about Silver Cross Hospital or a referral to a physician on staff, visit www.silvercross.org or call 1-888-660-HEAL (4325).  Physicians on Silver Cross Hospital’s Medical Staff have expertise in their areas of practice to meet the needs of patients seeking their care.  These physicians are independent practitioners on the Medical Staff and are not the agents or employees of Silver Cross Hospital. They treat patients based upon their independent medical judgment and they bill patients separately for their services.


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