Hendrick Health offers tips for heart health

February is American Heart Month, and Hendrick Health wants to raise awareness for having and maintaining heart health.

While individuals can suffer from a variety of heart ailments, the most common heart disease in the United States is coronary artery disease (CAD), according to the CDC. This medical condition affects the blood flow to the heart. Other common conditions include heart failure, valve disease, heart attacks and angina (chest pain). In many cases, individuals may not even know they have a problem until they experience symptoms, making it crucial to recognize signs and symptoms.

General symptoms can include:

• For heart attack: Chest pain or discomfort, upper back or neck pain, indigestion, heartburn, nausea or vomiting, extreme fatigue, upper body discomfort, dizziness and shortness of breath
• For heart failure: Shortness of breath, fatigue or swelling in the feet, ankles, legs, abdomen or neck
• For arrhythmia: Fluttering sensation in the chest known as palpitations

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States – 1 in 5 people die from it each year – even though it is largely preventable. According to the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, making small lifestyle changes can help reduce the risk and improve overall health.

The top three risk factors for heart disease include high blood pressure, high blood cholesterol and smoking, with approximately 47% of Americans having at least one of these risk factors. Eating healthy, regularly exercising, not smoking, controlling blood pressure and managing diabetes can have significant positive effects and reduce a person’s risk.

If you believe you are experiencing a heart attack, dial 9-1-1. To find a cardiologist, visit our website.