Thursday , March 28 2024

Your Big Red Heart

Love is in the air and cupid is flying around shooting his arrow into your big beautiful red heart to spread love. But wait, February is not only Valentine’s Day but also American Heart Month.
Many Americans don’t know that heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States. One in every 3 deaths are either caused by stroke or heart disease. This can equal to 2,200 deaths per day. Everyone needs to be aware of the signs and symptoms of heart disease and stroke. The most common heart disease is CAD (Coronary Artery Disease). This is when the blood supply to the heart muscle is cut off and cells in your heart do not receive enough oxygen which causes cells to die .In turn this will cause a heart attack.
The five symptoms of a heart attack are shortness of breath, pain or discomfort in your jaw, neck or back, light headed, faint or feeling weak, chest pain or discomfort, tightness, pain in your arm and shoulders. People that have high blood pressure, high cholesterol. smoke, increased age, unhealthy diet, lack of physical activity, smoking, obesity, stress, previous heart attack or family history of heart conditions have a higher chance of having a heart condition or heart attack.
Many people think that heart disease is a man’s disease but statistically the percentage of women being affected by heart disease is equal to men .Women are more likely to describe chest pain that is sharp, burning and have frequent pain in the jaw, abdomen, neck and back.
Everyone whether you’re a male or a female should be aware of the signs of a heart condition and take some preventive measures to reduce your chance of getting a heart disease.
Know your blood pressure. If your doctor prescribes medication to control your pressure take it as prescribed, do not stop or skip a dose because you think you feel better.
. Choose a healthy diet low in fat, rich in whole grains, fruits and vegetables and lean protein (limited red meat)
. If you smoke, QUIT! Need I say anymore?
. Limit alcohol. (Studies show glass of red wine is good for the heart)
. Shed those extra pounds.
. Take control of your stress.
. Exercise. Light cardio goes a long way. 20 minute walk 3-4 times a week does wonders.
. Baby aspirin daily (speak to your doctor first)
If you have concerns that you have been experiencing these symptoms, speak to your doctor .If you have a heart condition continue what is recommended by your doctor.
Remember prevention is not a cure but it can get you on the right track to a healthy heart.
Interim Healthcare of Leesburg, LLC.
352-326-0400
www.interimhealthcare.com/leesburg
Interim Healthcare of Ocala, LLC.
352-351-5040
www.interimhealthcare.com/ocala

Check Also

Nourishing the Nation

Nourishing the Nation: Celebrating National Nutrition Month

By Elizabeth Mello, Executive Director March marks the arrival of National Nutrition Month, an annual …