Show your heart some love

Thanks to advances in modern medicine and disease prevention, many of us are living longer, healthier lives. But heart disease remains a major threat. It’s the leading cause of death worldwide. That’s why you should be thinking about your heart now — especially if there’s a history of heart problems in your family. You can reduce your risk of heart disease in several different ways:

Control your blood pressure. High blood pressure is a major risk factor for heart disease. It is important to get your blood pressure checked regularly and if you have high blood pressure, stay on your treatment plan.

Maintain a healthy weight. Being overweight or obese can increase your risk for heart disease.

Get enough exercise. Aim for at least 30 minutes per day. Walking is great exercise.

Eat a healthy diet. Eat plenty of fresh fruit, vegetables, and whole grains. Limit saturated fats and high levels of sodium and sugar.

Get regular cholesterol checks. Work with your physician to keep your cholesterol and triglyceride levels under control. High cholesterol is a major risk factor for heart disease.

Quit smoking. If you smoke, stop.

Limit alcohol. Excessive alcohol consumption is linked to heart disease.

According to the Centers for Disease Control, heart disease is often not diagnosed until an individual experiences signs or symptoms of a heart attack, heart failure, or arrhythmia. Here are the symptoms for each:

Heart attack: Chest pain or discomfort, upper back or neck pain, indigestion, heartburn, nausea or vomiting, extreme fatigue, upper body discomfort, dizziness, and shortness of breath.

Arrhythmia: Fluttering feelings in the chest (palpitations).

Heart failure: Shortness of breath, fatigue, or swelling of the feet, ankles, legs, abdomen, or neck veins.

Even if you have no symptoms, you may still be at risk for heart disease. Talk to your physician about your risk and consider taking steps to reduce your risk through lifestyle changes.