Did you know that February is heart health month? Since our heart is so important to the body and health, take this month to discover ways to improve heart health. Heart disease is the number one cause of death in men and women and every year takes approximately 1 million lives, however, it can be prevented.
Heart and cardiovascular disease is not just one condition; it includes various heart-related diseases. Coronary artery disease, heart rhythm disorders, and congenital heart defects are common types of heart disease. Most often, heart disease refers to coronary artery disease, which develops from plaque buildup. Hard cholesterol substances, called plaques, accumulate in coronary arteries, narrowing them over time. Plaques may rupture, causing artery blockage by a clot, leading to a heart attack. In severe cases, this blockage can result in sudden cardiac death. This condition restricts oxygenated blood flow to the heart due to artery blockages. Fat, cholesterol, calcium, and other substances contribute to plaque formation in the arteries. Plaque buildup, known as atherosclerosis, can grow large enough to block arteries completely. If plaques break off, they may travel and cause dangerous blockages elsewhere. These blockages can lead to a heart attack or, in severe cases, sudden cardiac death.
Heart attacks are a medical emergency and it is imperative to have treatment immediately. Some symptoms of a heart attack are chest pain, shortness of breath and fatigue these symptoms can occur a few days or weeks before the heart attack. During a heart attack, a person may experience pain in the middle of the chest that can spread to the back, neck, jaw or arms. The person may also have pain or pressure in the stomach, which can be mistaken as indigestion may also occur. Other things that are common are nausea, vomiting, lightheadedness, dizziness, shortness of breath, sweats, anxiety, skin on extremities taking on a blue tone, Some people do not feel any chest pain during the event of a heart attack and others will not admit to feeling ill enough to request medical assistance.
You can help a victim of a heart attack by calling 911 as soon as possible because every minute that goes by without treatment is more damaging to the heart. Have the victim chew on aspirin to help reduce the size of the blood clot. If the person goes unconscious, begin CPR because that can increase the chances of survival and use an AED if available because an electric shock provided by an AED can restore a normal heartbeat.
Some preventative measures can help keep your heart in top shape. Visit your doctor for check-ups. Know your family history and any risk factors for heart issues. Keep your blood pressure under control to reduce heart disease risk. Avoid smoking, as it harms heart health. Manage diabetes properly to protect your heart. Monitor cholesterol and triglyceride levels to maintain healthy ranges. Eat a balanced diet with fruits and vegetables. Maintain a healthy weight to support heart function.
Seeing your dentist regularly can also help prevent heart problems. Some gum bacteria that cause bleeding may harm your heart. We can test for these pathogens with a simple saliva test. If needed, antibiotics can help control harmful bacteria.
Prevention is key, however, early intervention could be the difference between life and death. Know the signs and symptoms of a heart attack, you or your loved ones might be glad you do!