Guard Your Heart

Staying informed and alert can make a significant difference

By M Natalie Achong, MD

Living well is a matter of the heart, but unfortunately most of us have been personally impacted by the severity of cardiovascular disease (cvd). As a matter of fact, cvd is the leading cause of death for men and women in the u.s. over age 50 and is especially devastating for people of color. Compared to white Americans, Hispanic and Black adults are more likely to be sickened by and ultimately die from cvd.

The wide spectrum of cvd includes hypertension, heart attack, coronary heart disease and stroke. Sufferers may complain of chest pain, palpitations, fatigue, headache, and shortness of breath—all of which are associated with this disease. However, it is important to know that cvd can present in atypical ways and strike without warning.

If you have any symptoms or concerns, get yourself checked out now. When diagnosed early, most cases of cvd can be treated and successfully managed; but patients with cvd should be carefully monitored throughout the rest of their lives. cvd is a major complicating risk factor for other chronic common medical conditions, such as obesity, diabetes and certain lung disorders.

Each person’s risk factors, such as a family history of diabetes or other chronic ailments, have an impact on what their recommended blood pressure, Low Density Lipoprotein ( bad cholesterol ) and High Density Lipoprotein ( good cholesterol ) levels should be, so it is important to keep a record. Get regular physical examinations, screening tests, and blood work to assess your health status even if you feel totally fine and are not having any symptoms.

Of course, the ideal goal is to not develop cardiovascular disease in the first place. Although genetics and family history are strong risk factors for developing heart disease, it is not too late to take preventive measures. There is much that you can do to minimize your risk. Start by talking with your doctor and making the decision to incorporate healthy lifestyle changes in your daily activities. Here are a few you can get started on with relative ease:

• Eat more fruits, vegetables and grains.
• Eat fewer foods that are salty, fried or high in fat.
• Stabilize your blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
• Keep your weight in check.
• Exercise regularly and often, at least three to four times a week for 30 minutes at a time. This is the recommended amount needed in order to tone your heart and blood vessels and shed excess pounds. Remember, when it comes to exercise, consistency is key.
• If you drink alcohol, do so in moderation.
• Don’t smoke—period.
• Learn to better manage stress rather than allowing it to control you. If you are at risk, ask your doctor about taking a daily aspirin or other medications to prevent cardiovascular disease.
• Do all that you can to maximize your health so you can enjoy your life and loved ones to the fullest!