February is American Heart Month

02.14.2022

There is a lot to love about February. You’ve survived the first full month of winter! Valentine’s or Galentine’s Day! And February is also American Heart Month, the perfect time to pay attention to your amazing heart.

Did you know that the symptoms of heart attack are different for women than they are for men, and might not include chest pain? While squeezing or pressure in the chest can be a sign, women also may experience shortness of breath without chest discomfort as well as nausea, lightheadedness, and/or pain in the arms, back, neck, jaw or stomach. Some women liken it to flu symptoms.   Heart disease remains the leading cause of death for women and men with one person dying of cardiovascular disease every 36 seconds, according to the CDC, so it pays to focus on heart health this month and throughout the year.   The keys to a healthy heart start with quitting smoking—which can cut your risk of coronary heart disease in half in just one year—as well as a regular exercise program, a balanced diet and checking in with your healthcare provider.   “In addition to diet, exercise and quitting smoking, it is important to pay attention to stress and to find time to slow down and take good care of yourself,” said Dr. Pam Jordi. “It also helps to know your risk factors, such as family history, high blood pressure or cholesterol, diabetes and excessive alcohol use. We can help you find the information you need to take positive steps for your heart.”