Fight Heart Disease: Protect Your Heart, Save Your Life

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the U.S., but the good news is that many cases are preventable with the right lifestyle choices and awareness. Learn how you can take control of your heart health and recognize the warning signs before it’s too late.

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What is Heart Disease?

Heart disease refers to a range of conditions affecting the heart, including:
✅ Coronary artery disease (CAD) – The most common type, caused by narrowed arteries leading to heart attacks.
✅ Heart attacks (Myocardial infarctions) – Blockages in the arteries that stop blood flow to the heart.
✅ Heart failure – When the heart can’t pump blood effectively.
✅ Arrhythmias – Irregular heartbeats that can be life-threatening.

Warning Signs of a Heart Attack

A heart attack can strike suddenly or develop over time. Call 911 immediately if you or someone you know experiences:
🚨 Chest pain or discomfort – A feeling of pressure, squeezing, or fullness.
🚨 Shortness of breath – Even without chest pain.
🚨 Pain in the arms, neck, jaw, or back – Often mistaken for muscle pain.
🚨 Cold sweats, nausea, or dizziness – More common in women.
🚨 Unusual fatigue – Feeling excessively tired for no reason.

How to Prevent Heart Disease

Taking steps today can help prevent heart disease in the future. Follow these key heart-healthy habits:

🥗 Eat a Heart-Healthy Diet

Choose lean proteins, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.
Reduce saturated fats, salt, and added sugars.
Avoid processed and fried foods that clog arteries.

🏃 Stay Active

Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week.
Walking, biking, swimming, or strength training all improve heart health.
Move more—sitting for long periods increases heart risks.

🚭 Quit Smoking & Limit Alcohol

Smoking doubles your risk of heart disease. Quitting immediately benefits your heart.
Limit alcohol to moderate levels (1 drink per day for women, 2 for men).

🩺 Manage Stress & Health Conditions

Control high blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes with regular checkups.
Reduce stress with meditation, deep breathing, and exercise.
Get enough sleep (7–9 hours per night) for a healthier heart.

What to Do in a Heart Emergency

If someone collapses or is unresponsive, act fast:
🆘 Call 911 immediately – Every second counts.
🆘 Perform CPR – Push hard and fast in the center of the chest at 100-120 compressions per minute.
🆘 Use an AED (Automated External Defibrillator) – If available, follow the device’s instructions to restart the heart.