February is American Heart Month, a time to focus on heart health and raise awareness about heart disease, the leading cause of death in the United States.
According to the American Heart Association, more than 800,000 Americans experience a heart attack each year. Closer to home, heart-related deaths in Avoyelles Parish are significantly higher than the state average. These numbers are sobering, but the good news is that many forms of heart disease are preventable.
Heart disease can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, or background. That’s why it’s never too early or too late to start taking steps to protect your heart, not just in February, but all year long.
Know the Signs and Symptoms of Heart Disease
Heart disease is not one single condition. It includes a group of disorders that affect the heart and blood vessels, such as coronary artery disease, irregular heart rhythms, and heart failure.
Common signs and symptoms of heart disease may include:
Chest pain or discomfort
Shortness of breath
Irregular or racing heartbeat
Dizziness or fainting
Swelling in the legs, ankles, or feet
Nausea or vomiting
Symptoms can vary depending on the type and severity of heart disease. If you experience sudden, severe, or ongoing symptoms, do not ignore them. Call 911 or seek emergency medical care right away. When it comes to your heart, every second counts.
How to Reduce Your Risk of Heart Disease
Heart disease is not inevitable. Many risk factors can be managed through healthy lifestyle choices and regular medical care.
To protect your heart, consider these heart-healthy habits:
Eat a balanced, nutritious diet
Stay physically active
Maintain a healthy weight
Manage stress
Quit smoking
Limit alcohol intake
Monitor your blood pressure and cholesterol
Schedule regular checkups and screenings
Take medications as prescribed by your provider
These changes can lower your risk of heart disease while also improving your energy levels, confidence, and overall quality of life.
Heart-Healthy Services Available at Bunkie General Hospital
Bunkie General Hospital offers a range of services designed to support heart health and help patients take control of their cardiovascular wellness:
Cardiac Rehabilitation
A personalized program guided by a registered nurse, designed to help patients recover and strengthen their heart after a cardiac event.BGH Fitness Center
Access to personal training, boot camps, and weight management resources to support an active lifestyle.Coronary Calcium Scoring CT Scans
A non-invasive scan that helps identify plaque buildup and assess your risk for heart disease.Chronic Care Management
A personalized health plan to help patients manage ongoing conditions, stay organized, and meet long-term health goals.
To learn more about these services and others available at Bunkie General Hospital, visit the links below or speak with your healthcare provider.
Loving your heart starts with small steps. This February and beyond, make heart health a priority for yourself and for the ones you love.
Cardiac Rehab Fitness center Coronary Calcium Scoring Chronic Care ManagementThis article is for informational purposes only and is not intended for medical diagnosis or treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider with any questions or concerns about your health.