February Is American Heart Month – Tips for Keeping Your Heart Healthy & Strong
Since 1963, February has been known as American Heart Month. This is a time when healthcare experts and providers spread greater awareness of heart disease and give tips to keep hearts healthy and strong. As we age, the risks of heart-related problems increase, and people who have a family history of cardiac disease have an even higher risk of developing a serious health condition.
Heart Health Is Important for Women as Well as Men
Many think that heart disease is something only men are at risk for through the years. However, women too must take steps to maintain good heart health. Heart disease in women is often misdiagnosed due to misinformation and different warning signs than men typically experience before a severe cardiac event. The percentage of women who develop coronary heart disease is approximately 1 in 16 women who are over the age of 20.
Warning Signs of an Impending Adverse Cardiac Event
Men typically report chest pain when having a serious cardiac emergency, while women often don’t experience this chest pain in the same manner. In women, it is more common for symptoms like nausea, heartburn, and perhaps a mild chest discomfort to occur. Pain can be felt radiating down the left arm, making an uncomfortable tingling sensation or numbness.
Expert Tips for Keeping Your Heart Healthy & Strong
No matter what your age is, there are some helpful steps to take that can decrease those risks of a heart attack or permanent heart disease. Be aware of all the symptoms of a pending heart attack and seek medical treatment early.
Commit to a Heart-Healthy Lifestyle
Determine to commit to living a heart-healthy lifestyle. Avoid smoking and too much alcohol, and incorporate healthy foods with more fruits and vegetables into your diet.
