Humans are constantly worrying about dangers across the world, deep at sea, or high in the sky. We indulge our fantasies with far off worries, forgetting to look at what is actually nearby.
And in doing so, we miss the dangers lurking right outside our own doorsteps. Dangers that could otherwise be avoided. Dangers that need our full attention.
Which leads us to the topic of heart disease, one of the leading causes of death.
So this February, focus on the here and now, and help us honor American Heart Month.
What is American Heart Month?
Thousands of Americans suffer from heart diseases, heart attacks, and heart failures. Unfortunately, seniors and those around them often don’t recognize the symptoms of heart disease. This lets the problem sit unattended to and grow until it’s almost too late.
That’s why February’s American Hearth Month is so important. This is the time of year that Americans all over the country dedicate time and energy to bringing valuable, life-saving information to the attention of all.
Learn more about heart disease and help raise awareness.
Your knowledge just might save your loved one’s life.
What are some signs of heart disease?
There are many known types of heart disease. But what most of them have in common is that they are essentially a buildup of plaque around the arteries. The problem with this is that the plaque then takes up room in the arteries, narrowing the amount of space that the blood can move through. This means, that the heart has to work that much harder to pump blood through the body.
Because the heart is over worked and for less blood circulation, heart disease can often lead to heart attacks, strokes, or heart failure.
Of course, different heart diseases exhibit different symptoms.
However, here are some to be aware of:
- Shortness of breath
- Dizziness
- Chest pain
- Skin discoloration
- Irregular heartbeat
What are ways to prevent heart disease?
Eat healthy.
Foods like fish, oatmeal, olive oil, and flaxseed are considered to be great foods for the heart.
Exercise regularly.
Getting in regular exercise is essential to having a healthy heart. It doesn’t have to be an intense workout, but walks and cardio workouts are great for getting the blood pumping and the oxygen in your body moving.
Avoid stress.
Too much stress, and for too long, can actually have physical ramifications for one’s heart. So take things step by step, avoiding too much stress.
What to do if you see someone having a heart attack?
If you notice your senior experiencing any symptoms of a heart attack, don’t panic. Call 911 immediately, even if you’re unsure. For the sake of your loved one, it’s better to make a mistake calling than not to call at all. And, trust us, the police will be forgiving.
If your senior is unconscious and help has not arrived yet, start CPR. A dispatcher from the police station should talk you through the motions. Or at least how to do basic chest compressions.
Stay alert and educated for American Heart Month.
