Health News - American Heart Month

February is American Heart Month

Heart disease is a term that covers a variety of conditions that can lead to heart attack, stroke and death. Conditions such as irregular heartbeat, obesity, clogged arteries, high blood pressure and inherited heart conditions all can contribute to heart disease. According to the American Heart Association (AHA), heart disease is the largest cause of death in the United States, with stroke coming in at a close third.

Research shows that precursors of heart disease can start in adolescence and that creating a healthy lifestyle at this age is important in preventing heart disease. There are several different risk factors associated with heart disease:

• High Blood Pressure
• High Cholesterol
• Diabetes
• Obesity
• Smoking
• Physical Inactivity
• Heredity
• Stress

It's important to prevent heart disease by eating a healthy diet, becoming active and not smoking. These are the key factors in why people develop heart disease. It is also important to have a physical once a year to make sure that you are healthy and are getting the right treatment if any of the risk factors have been diagnosed.

Here are some easy ways to prevent against any type of heart disease:

• Know your blood pressure and keep it under control
• Know your blood pressure and keep it under control
• Don't smoke
• Get tested for diabetes and if you have it, keep it under control
• Know your cholesterol and triglyceride levels and keep them under control
• Eat a lot of fruits and vegetables
• Maintain a healthy weight

As always, if you have any questions regarding your health or think that you may be at risk for heart disease contact the office to speak with a nurse or to see a doctor. Phone (518) 785-5881.