As Seen on WKRN Local on 2: Nashville General's Dr. Bricknell Talks Heart Health

Your heart works around the clock — but how often do you think about keeping it healthy? In a recent appearance on WKRN's Local on 2, Dr. Ryan Bricknell, board-certified cardiologist at Nashville General Hospital, shared expert insight on cardiovascular health and what patients can do to protect their hearts.

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Why Heart Health Matters Right Now

Heart disease is the number one killer of Americans — but it is also one of the most preventable. Getting your blood pressure and cholesterol checked, staying active, eating well, and not smoking can all significantly lower your risk.

Dr. Bricknell noted that many patients have no symptoms until a cardiac event occurs. That's why preventive care and regular check-ins matter — especially if heart disease runs in your family.

Know the Warning Signs

Not every heart problem feels like the classic chest-clutch you see in movies. Dr. Bricknell encouraged patients to pay attention to:

• Chest pain, pressure, or tightness
• Shortness of breath during normal activities
• Unusual fatigue or weakness
• Dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting
• Irregular heartbeat or palpitations

If you experience any of these — especially more than once — talk to a doctor. Early detection can be lifesaving.

Prevention Is Possible — and Powerful

Heart disease is not inevitable. Lifestyle choices have a direct impact over time. Even modest changes — a daily walk, less sodium, better stress management — can lower your risk of heart attack and stroke.

For patients already managing high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or diabetes, working with a cardiologist helps keep those conditions from leading to bigger problems.

Advanced Heart Imaging at Nashville General

Nashville General Hospital offers advanced cardiovascular imaging to diagnose heart conditions earlier and more accurately. Dr. Bricknell specializes in echocardiography, nuclear cardiology, and cardiac CT — and is actively expanding these services at NGH so more patients can access high-quality heart imaging close to home.