Heart disease is a leading cause of death in the United States. Everyone is at risk of having heart disease; however, some people are at a higher risk than others. If you have high cholesterol and smoke or are overweight, you have increased heart disease chances. If you are obese and have high blood pressure and do not get sufficient physical activity, you are at a higher risk. People who do not eat a healthy diet are also at risk. Men and women who are over 55 and 45, respectively, are at a higher risk. To help determine your heart healthy and whether you have any problems with your heart, you can get an echocardiogram in Upper East Side to help diagnose heart problems or conditions before they bring serious complications. Otherwise, you want to use these tips to keep your heart healthy and in great form:
Know Your Numbers
You need to control or manage your blood pressure as well as cholesterol levels. Both can contribute to heart attack and heart disease. If your blood pressure and cholesterol numbers are high, you should take steps to help lower them. Make sure that you have your cholesterol checked, at least every 4 to 6 years. You may want to have it checked more often if you have a high chance of developing heart disease. Also, have your blood pressure checked once you reach 18. Remember that high blood pressure does not have symptoms or signs. There are many tools that you can use to check blood pressure levels.
Talk To Your Doctor
You want to know your family’s heart health history and people who have had heart problems in the family. This can help you in making an informed decision and talking about health issues with your doctor. You may also want to take aspirin if you are between the age of 50 and 59 as it helps lower the risk of heart attacks and strokes. However, not everyone can take aspirin, so you should talk about it with your doctor. Find out from your doctor whether or not it is right for you to take aspirin.
Eat Healthily
Consuming healthy foods can help reduce your risk of developing heart disease. You need to have foods that have low levels of trans-fats. Eat foods that have low added sugars level as well as sodium or salt. Consider high-fiber foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Also, eat certain fats such as fats in fish and olive oil. If you consume alcohol, drink moderate amounts. For women, do not drink in excess of 1 drink a day. Men should not drink more than 2 drinks a day.
Exercise Your Body
You need to get active to help prevent heart disease. Consider having at least two and a half hours of moderate aerobic activities every week. You can indulge in dancing, walking fast, and biking or swimming.
Have A Healthy Heart
Following these tips can help you ensure a healthy heart and deal with any complications related to the heart. See or call a doctor immediately you suspect you have heart problems.
