Heart Health at Any Age
According to the Centers for Disease Control, 26.5 million Americans suffer from heart disease, and heart disease is the leading cause of death in our country. But let’s bring this down to a simpler level. More than one in three women has some form of heart disease, and since 1984, the number of deaths for females has exceeded those for males. The American Heart Association’s Go Red campaign focuses specifically on women and women’s heart health. Here is what they suggest for heart disease prevention:
- Know your numbers: Go to a screening and find out what your cholesterol and blood pressure are. The goal should be below 200 for cholesterol and below 120/80 mmHg for your blood pressure.
- Know your family history: If anyone in your family suffered from a heart attack, stroke or other heart diseases, your risk for developing heart disease increases. This is good to know for future prevention.
- Smoking: Don’t smoke! This increases your risk for heart disease up to four times that of someone that doesn’t smoke. It’s never too late! For more information go to www.QuitNow.net .
- Alcohol: Drink in moderation. Drinking heavily can cause a spike in blood pressure and may cause heart failure or stroke. For women, this is no more than one drink per day.
- Birth Control: Oral contraceptives can cause an increase in your blood pressure and may lead to stroke. If you can safely use another form of birth control that doesn’t put your heart at risk, consider it. Talk with your doctor about birth control options that will be best for you.
- Eat balanced meals: Eating healthy means eating nutritiously. Include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fish and beans. Avoid food that must be advertised.
- Exercise: Exercise at least 40 minutes four times per week. Brisk walking or jogging with friends or family may help accomplish this goal. It also provides a healthy social stress reliever.
For more information visit www.GoRedForWomen.org and, as always, discuss any issues with your doctor.
Melanie Yunger is a local nurse practitioner, mother and wife with a passion for prevention.