A Heart for Health: Celebrating February as Heart Health Awareness Month

February is recognized as Heart Health Awareness Month, and this is an opportunity to highlight the significance of maintaining a healthy heart. During this month, we aim to educate our community on ways to support heart health and reduce the risk of heart disease. Heart disease is the leading cause of death among both men and women in the United States. We encourage everyone to take proactive steps toward a healthier future.

What is heart disease?    

Heart disease encompasses various conditions that impact the heart. This is caused by a combination of genetic factors, lifestyle choices, and other underlying health issues.    

Types of heart disease  

• Coronary artery disease (CAD) is the most common heart disease in the United States. It affects blood flow to the heart due to plaque buildup made of cholesterol, fats, and other substances, a condition known as atherosclerosis. 

•  Arrhythmias are irregular or abnormal heart rhythms. When a person experiences arrhythmias, their heart may beat too slowly or too quickly.  

• Vascular heart disease primarily affects the blood vessels, but it can also occur elsewhere in the body. This condition can reduce blood flow to various parts of the body. 

• Congenital heart disease (CHD) is a condition that develops during fetal development and is typically recognized shortly after birth. There are various types of CHD, which include abnormalities of the heart valves, blood vessels, and walls of the heart.  

• Heart failure occurs when the heart does not function properly. This can happen if the heart is weak or too stiff. Heart failure may lead to other health issues, such as swelling in the legs and abdomen, as well as shortness of breath caused by fluid accumulation in the lungs.    

  
  

Steps to take towards a healthier heart and a healthier you  

• Eat Healthy: Choose nutritious meals and snacks that include plenty of vegetables and fruits, along with foods high in fiber and protein. Limit your intake of salt and saturated fats. 

• Maintain a Healthy Weight: Being overweight increases your risk of high blood pressure, which can lead to heart disease. 

• Stay Physically Active: Adults should aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate intensity exercise each week, which can be achieved by doing 30 minutes a day for five days, such as brisk walking or biking. 

• Avoid Smoking: Smoking, even occasionally, raises your blood pressure and significantly increases your risk of heart attack and stroke. 

• Get Enough Sleep: Aim for seven to eight hours of sleep each night to help keep your heart and blood vessels healthy.   

For a proactive approach to understanding your heart health, contact your Primary Care Provider or call the Jemez Comprehensive Health Clinic at 575-834-7413. They will help you schedule an appointment. 

Your heart works hard for you every day. Show it some love this month by making heart-healthy choices.