Heart Health

Assessing your risk for Heart Disease.

Risk factors include:

· Age ~ Men over age 45 and women over age 55 are at a greater risk for heart disease.

· Family history ~ It is important to know what “runs in the family” and to tell your provider. Your provider can then recommend screening tests and preventive treatments as appropriate.

· High blood pressure ~ Weight loss, exercise, not smoking and, in some people, cutting down on sodium (salt) and alcohol will help. Some people may also need to take medicine to control their blood pressure.

· High cholesterol ~ If you don’t know your cholesterol level, ask your provider if it should be checked. To reduce (and prevent) high cholesterol levels, limit how much cholesterol and fat you eat, and get regular exercise. Some people with high cholesterol levels may also need to take medicine to keep their levels under control.

· Smoking ~ Quitting smoking is the single best change you can make for your health.

· Inactivity and poor diet ~ A diet high in fat and cholesterol has been linked with heart disease and many other health problems. For information on a heart-healthy diet visit MyPyramid.gov.

· Excess weight ~ Being overweight puts extra strain on your heart and blood vessels. Talk to your provider about safe ways to lose weight.

· Other health problems (such as diabetes) ~ Heart disease is the leading cause of death among middle-aged and older men and among women over age 60. Take a moment to look at your lifestyle, family history and general health. With this information, you and your provider can assess your risk and make a plan to tackle potential problems.

· CPR ~ If you find an unresponsive adult, place flat on back on a firm surface. If the adult is injured, move only if necessary, and turn head, neck, and body as a unit. If the adult is not breathing, call 911 and begin (Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation).

This information was received from an article on “Heart Disease” at familydoctor.org.