FEBRUARY IS AMERICAN HEART MONTH
February is American Heart Month. The District shares information on recognizing heart attack symptoms, which can differ between men and women, and steps to reduce heart disease risk through diet, activity, and regular checkups.
American Heart Month and Valentine’s Day are both observed this month. What a wonderful way to double up on your heart health efforts for yourself and your loved ones!
Did you know?
- Heart attacks can be silent - one in five heart attacks occur without the person even knowing they had one.
- Heart attack symptoms can differ between men and women. Women may experience abdominal pain and epigastric burning, pain in the back, arm, neck, or shoulder; nausea; fatigue; shortness of breath; and vomiting whereas men may experience sweating, pain in the chest, arms, neck, or jaw; shortness of breath; heartburn or indigestion.
- Young women are more likely to die from heart attacks than similarly aged men because they do not recognize the symptoms, so they delay care and treatment.
- Maintaining a healthy diet consisting of a wide variety of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, healthy sources of protein and minimizing processed foods is one of the best things you can do to support a healthy heart.
You can take an active role in reducing your risk for heart disease by eating a healthy diet, engaging in physical activity, and managing your cholesterol and blood pressure. This is a wonderful opportunity to start heart-healthy habits!
- Start a heart-healthy habit - staying active, eating healthy, and watching our weight are all important parts of maintaining a healthy cardiovascular system. Pick a new heart-healthy habit like jogging or substituting sodas with water and try to stick to it for a whole month.
- Educate yourself – learn about the risk factors for heart disease, the ways you can prevent them, and the lifestyle choices that can help you stay healthy.
- Get your cholesterol evaluated - If you are worried you might be at risk for heart disease, ask your doctor to perform a simple cholesterol test to let you know if you are at risk and should adjust your diet.
