February is American Heart Month to increase awareness of taking care of our tickers! Did you know that heart disease is the #1 killer worldwide with stroke ranking second? About 600,000 Americans die of heart disease each year.
Heart Attack symptoms vary between men and women. As with men, women’s most common heart attack symptom is chest pain (angina) or discomfort. Women, more likely than men, can
experience some of the other common symptoms, particularly shortness of breath,
nausea/vomiting, and back or jaw pain.
Recognize the signs of a heart attack and call 9-1-1.
You can lower your risk of a second heart attack by:
– Taking your medications as prescribed.
– Following up with your doctor.
– Participate in cardiac rehab.
– Manage risk factors such as smoking, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes.
– Get support from family and friends; talking about it minimizes anxiety.
Get heart healthy by eating nutrient-rich foods such as fruits, veggies, whole grains, fish and lean poultry. Avoid saturated fats, trans fats and excess sodium and sugar. Control your portion size. Plan ahead – create daily menus.
Source: American Heart Association, Mayo Clinic
