American Heart Month: Take the time this February to become familiar with the warning signs of heart attack
Valentine's Day is February 14, and the holiday's theme of romantic love, hearts and flowers makes February the natural choice for American Heart Month. There's no better time to remind your loved ones of the importance of heart health.
Atherosclerosis, which includes heart disease and stroke, is the number one killer in the United States; however, the protective role of lifestyle, including exercise and nutrition, is well established. A diet that is relatively low in calories and saturated fats, while containing beneficial omega-3 fats provided by fish and fish oil supplements, is a vital component of a heart healthy lifestyle program. Other nutrients, such as CoQ10, niacin, and vitamin C, provide additional cardiovascular benefits.
While omega-3-rich fish oil supplements, CoQ10, and other nutrients are of significant value as part of a healthy nutritional regimen, regular exercise, with your physician's approval, may be as important as nutrition in helping to prevent heart attack and stroke.
Take the time this February to become familiar with the warning signs of heart attack: chest discomfort that lasts more than a few minutes or comes and goes; discomfort in other areas of the body, such as one or both arms; shortness of breath, perspiration, nausea and/or lightheadedness. The signs of stroke, all of which can occur suddenly, are: numbness or weakness of the face, arm or leg; confusion, trouble speaking or understanding; trouble seeing in one or both eyes, trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination, or severe headache with no known cause. Anyone experiencing these signs, or witnessing someone who is exhibiting them, is urged to call 911 immediately.