NHS invites people to attend free heart health event in Holsworthy
The NHS and its partners are inviting people aged 40 and over to attend a free heart health event in Holsworthy next week.
Following the success of the Market Health Hub at Holsworthy Livestock Market, the venue is hosting a drop-in clinic supported by nurses from the Trust. This aims to help identify potential signs of heart failure and improve awareness of a condition affecting many people across the UK.
The event will take place on Wednesday 9 September from 10am to 4pm. It is open to everyone. No appointment needed.
It is being supported by the charity Pumping Marvellous Foundation. Other partners include LumiraDx, Medtronic and Roche. This is part of the campaign to help people recognise the signs of heart failure sooner.
Visitors will be able to access free heart health checks and information. They can also speak to specialists. They can learn more about the symptoms of heart failure. This can often be mistaken for signs of ageing or other health conditions.
Organisers are keen to hear from people experiencing symptoms such as:
- breathlessness
- unusual tiredness or exhaustion
- swollen ankles, feet, or legs
Early diagnosis can make a difference to treatment and quality of life.
Elizabeth 'Buffy' Flanagan is a community nurse for the Trust. She works out of the market every Wednesday. She says:
"Many people live with symptoms of heart failure for months or even years before seeking help. They put them down to getting older or being less fit than they used to be.
"We want local people to know that if they are experiencing breathlessness, exhaustion or ankle swelling, it is worth getting checked out. This free event provides a simple chance to learn more about heart health and seek advice from healthcare professionals.
"We would encourage people living in rural communities across Holsworthy and the surrounding area to pop along. No appointment is required and everyone aged 40 and over is welcome."
Heart failure does not mean the heart has stopped working. It is a long-term condition where the heart is unable to pump blood around the body as well as it should. Symptoms can often develop gradually and be mistaken for other conditions.
The event aims to raise awareness, support earlier diagnosis and help people access appropriate care if needed.