By Cara Beth Lewis
February is a month full of the color red and hearts. Maybe you usually associate these two things with Valentine’s Day on the 14th, but did you know that February is also American Heart Month?
Each year, more than 600,000 Americans die from heart disease. Heart disease affects all genders and ethnicities, and it can stem from a variety of factors including high cholesterol, high blood pressure, excessive alcohol consumption, smoking, and diabetes. On the other hand, there are ways you can help prevent the disease – a healthy diet, regular exercise, and managing your cholesterol and blood pressure.
According to cdc.gov, “The term ‘heart disease’ refers to several types of heart conditions. The most common type is coronary artery disease, which can cause heart attack. Other kinds of heart disease may involve the valves in the heart, or the heart may not pump well and cause heart failure. Some people are born with heart disease.”
The human heart is vital for life, and it serves many roles for the human body. The heart is responsible for pumping blood throughout our body, supplying nutrients and oxygen, and removing waste and toxins. When the arteries leading to the heart become clogged, this causes heart disease.
The purpose of American Heart Month is to raise awareness and spread knowledge. Many people are unaware that they are at risk of heart disease due to their lifestyle. The goal of American Heart Month is to educate Americans on how to prevent the life-threatening disease and live life with a healthy heart.
The first Friday in February is National Wear Red Day. The goal of Wear Red Day is to spread awareness of Heart Disease, in honor of American Heart Month.
What are the signs and symptoms? (from cdc.gov)
The symptoms vary depending on the type of heart disease. For many people, chest discomfort or a heart attack is the first sign.
Someone having a heart attack may experience several symptoms, including:
- Chest pain or discomfort that doesn’t go away after a few minutes.
- Pain or discomfort in the jaw, neck, or back.
- Weakness, light-headedness, nausea (feeling sick to your stomach), or a cold sweat.
- Pain or discomfort in the arms or shoulder.
- Shortness of breath.
If you think that you or someone you know is having a heart attack, call 9-1-1 immediately.
To donate to the American Heart Association, click here.
Don’t forget to wear red in honor of National Wear Red Day and American Heart Month!
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