As we recognize and celebrate our awareness of February for being Heart Awareness Month, let's commit to learning and understanding risks associated with heart disease, and signs and symptoms of heart attack. According to the American Heart Association, heart disease a.k.a cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the No. 1 cause of death in women.
Amazingly, your health is only as good as your heart....
Although the average human heart is known to be approximately the size of one's fist, it has the tremendous responsibility of pumping blood throughout our entire body which is necessary for our being. Therefore, don't give it to chance, take good care of your heart.
"Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it." Proverbs 4:23
Seven important factors associated with heart disease and/or heart attack:
1. Smoke
2. Family History
3. Poor Diet
4. Obesity
5. Sedentary Lifestyle
6. High Blood Pressure
7. High Cholesterol
If you experience any of the following, don't hesitate to call 911 and/or seek medical assistance ASAP:
- Uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness, tightness or pain in the center of your chest
- Pain or discomfort in one or both arms, back, neck, jaw or stomach
- Shortness of breath with or without chest discomfort
- Sudden cold sweat, with or without an episode of nausea or vomiting and/or light-headedness
Challenge: Become A Healthier "YOU"
- Be cognizant of what you put into your body and how it affects your heart
- Keep stress to a minimum as it may be harmful to your heart
- Remember, you need your heart to survive
Dr. Karen Jackson, DNP, MSN, NEA-BC
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