Heart & Vascular Center

Phone Numbers

Lexington Medical Heart and Vascular Center

Cardiology
(803) 744-4900
Cardiothoracic Surgery
(803) 936-3275
Vascular Surgery
(803) 936-7095

Cardiac Rehabilitation

Main Campus
(803) 791-2621
LMC Lexington
(803) 358-6180
LMC Irmo
(803) 732-5388

Taking Care of Yourself

Advice for Taking Care of Yourself

  • Reduce risk factors through lifestyle changes
  • Check your blood pressure and take medications as instructed
  • Improve daily energy, outlook and ability to cope with stress

"I feel like I have a new lease on life."

— Mary, Heart & Vascular Center Patient

Our Services for a Heart Healthy Lifestyle

One of our registered dietitians can help you create and stick to a heart healthy food plan.

Ask for a Referral

You’ll need a referral from an LMC physician to make an appointment with our nutrition team. Talk with your doctor to see if nutrition consultations would be right for you.

Heart Disease Risk Assessment Calculator

This calculator is intended for people between the ages of 40 and 79. It helps predict your risk over 10 years of heart attack, stroke, or death from cardiovascular disease. Your doctor can help you understand your personal risk and how to interpret your results. The calculator cannot tell for sure whether you will have a cardiovascular event.

Exercise Therapy

Our trainers understand the physical challenges that come with treatment for heart and vascular conditions.

After your doctor has cleared you for exercise, we'll help you create and stick to a workout routine that fits your goals and helps you recover as fully and quickly as possible.

What is the program?
  • A personal physical assessment and creation of exercise goals.
  • Eight small group training sessions, twice a week for 4 weeks.
  • Two one-on-one sessions to evaluate progress.
What are the benefits of exercise?
  • Gives you more energy.
  • Helps with depression and anxiety.
  • Reduces recovery time.

Reducing Stress

Keeping stress levels under control is one of the best things you can do for your heart health.

Dealing with Emotions

It’s normal to have difficulty accepting a serious heart or vascular diagnosis. You may experience a range of emotions:

  • Anger
  • Grief
  • Guilt
  • Fear
  • Depression

These emotions can increase the stress you already may feel.

Be aware of your emotions around friends and family.

Do your best to discuss issues calmly and without fighting. Shouting and hurt feelings only lead to more stress.

Be patient with yourself.

You are facing an intense life change. Some days will be better than others. Try not to let that frustrate you and lead to additional stress.

Take time for relaxation.

Try a massage, meditation, acupuncture or other forms of holistic healing. If you need ideas about what may work for you, ask your doctor about your options for complementary medicine.

Talk to others.

Communicate with your loved ones and tell them how you’re feeling. Seek out a support group for encouragement from others who know what you’re going through.

If you find it difficult to manage your emotions, talk to your doctor about professional treatment or complementary medicine.

Quit Smoking

For those who smoke, quitting is a hard but necessary part of recovery. Get help with our free 8-week program.

Proven Success

Our Freedom from Smoking program boasts a 51% quit rate, compared to the national average of 17 to 23%.

How long is the program?

You’ll attend eight 2-hour sessions. These sessions usually meet weekly.

When do sessions meet?

The program runs multiple times each year. Sessions usually meet in the evening during the week. See upcoming sessions.

Free with Registration

We offer this program for free to the public, but registration is required.

Diabetes Control

High blood pressure from uncontrolled diabetes can lead to weakened arteries, increasing your risk of heart disease.

Support Groups

Learn how to manage your diabetes to live a full, healthy life and reduce the likelihood of developing a heart condition.