February brings a flurry of hearts, not only for Valentine’s Day but also for American Heart Month. This is a crucial time to emphasize cardiovascular health and increase awareness of heart disease, the leading cause of death in the U.S., with a shocking statistic from the CDC highlighting that someone dies from heart disease every 34 seconds.
Your heart tirelessly beats around the clock, taking a pause only when you relax or sleep. To keep this essential muscle strong and healthy, here are four straightforward ways to nurture your heart this American Heart Month and throughout the year:
1. Maintain a Healthy Diet: Hydrate yourself with at least 64 ounces of water daily while shunning sugary drinks. Fill your plate with colorful fruits, vegetables, whole grains, low-fat dairy, skinless poultry, fish, nuts, and legumes, while limiting saturated fats, trans fats, sodium, and red meat for a heart-friendly diet.
2. Recognize Heart Attack Signs: Heart attacks can strike suddenly or begin with mild discomfort. Pay attention to persistent pressure in the chest, pain in the arms or back, shortness of breath, and other symptoms such as cold sweats or nausea. Never hesitate to call 9-1-1 if these symptoms arise.
3. Monitor Your Numbers: Stay vigilant by regularly checking your cholesterol and blood pressure levels, as high LDL and systolic pressure can elevate heart disease risks. Discuss with your healthcare provider strategies to keep these numbers in check to maintain your heart’s health.
4. Know Your Family Medical History: Understanding your family’s heart health history is vital, as genetics can influence your risk for heart disease. This knowledge allows you and your provider to tailor preventive measures to minimize risks through lifestyle adjustments.
By prioritizing heart health early on, you can reduce your risk for heart disease while collaborating with your provider to identify and tackle any issues. Should you wish to consult about your heart health, Central Carolina Hospital is ready to assist. Call 800.483.6385 or visit their website to book an appointment today. In emergency situations, a timely call to 9-1-1 can be life-saving.
January is not just about romance; it’s American Heart Month. Heart disease remains a leading cause of death, with one person dying every 34 seconds in the U.S. To promote heart health, consider maintaining a healthy diet, recognizing heart attack symptoms, monitoring cholesterol and blood pressure, and understanding family health histories. This February, take action to protect your heart and seek guidance from Central Carolina Hospital if needed.
February serves as a reminder to cherish your heart and take proactive steps to safeguard it. By adopting a healthier diet, recognizing heart attack signs, monitoring key health metrics, and understanding your family history, you’re not just safeguarding your heart but potentially saving your life. Prioritizing heart health this month can fuel better long-term wellness.
Original Source: sandhillssentinel.com
