February is Heart Health Month, a time to raise awareness about heart disease, which remains the leading cause of death in the United States. While the statistics are serious, many of the risk factors associated with heart disease can be reduced through simple lifestyle changes.
Healthy eating and regular physical activity play a major role in lowering the risk of heart-related complications. Experts say recognizing early warning signs is also critical. Symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, and fatigue during physical activity should never be ignored. Chest pain that radiates to the left arm, back, or jaw can be a sign of heart-related issues and requires immediate medical attention.
Heart disease is often preventable. Staying active, maintaining a heart-healthy diet, and managing conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes are among the most effective ways to protect heart health.
Medical professionals also recommend heart health screenings to assess risk and catch potential problems early. One common screening is a calcium CT scan, which measures plaque buildup in the heart’s arteries. Higher levels of plaque can increase the risk of blockages or future heart attacks.
A heart-healthy diet includes fresh fruits and vegetables, baked fish or poultry, and limiting fried foods. Regular exercise is equally important. The recommended guideline is 30 to 40 minutes of physical activity at least three to four times a week, combining both cardiovascular exercise and strength training to support overall heart health.
As Heart Health Month continues, residents are encouraged to take proactive steps now to protect their hearts and build healthier habits for the future.
