Ask the Physician
The New Jersey Police Chief Magazine | September 2020
Between COVID-19 and the stresses of my EMT job , I have been running non-stop . My doctor told me I need to slow down , lose a few pounds , and take a break , but I don ’ t see that happening in the near future . My wife is worried about me . Any thoughts ? Jacob , Mt . Laurel
Jacob , yes I do have a few thoughts .
First , your doctor is probably right . Slowing down and taking better care of yourself is always good advice , for everyone . But given your job stresses , you could be at higher risk of cardiovascular disease . At the very least you should carve out an hour to see a cardiac specialist and get a health risk assessment .
Our specialists are specifically trained and have many years of experience of diagnosing and treating first responders . I would recommend that you take the time to have a thorough check up . We ’ ll be able to detect if you are at higher risk for a heart attack or other adverse event . The last thing in the world you need is to go five steps backwards with an unexpected -- and possibly preventable -- heart condition .
Make the call and get an appointment . Make your wife happy ! Call 833-227-3996 or visit www . DemandDeborah . org to learn more .
Paula Seth , MD Medical Director , First Responder Health Assessment Program Deborah Heart and Lung Center
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