Keep Your Heart Healthy For Valentine’s

In celebration of Valentine’s Day, here are 5 ways to keep your heart healthy.

1. Have a regular check up

Schedule regular exams with your health care provider so they can monitor the function and performance of your heart and other vital signs. If you don’t have a health care provider, get one!

2. Know signs and symptoms of a heart attack

Discomfort, heaviness, or pressure in the chest that can last from 30 minutes to two hours, or it can go away within minutes and return in the chest or a different area of the upper body
Discomfort in one arm (particularly the left) or both arms, between the shoulders, the upper back, in the neck, and/or near the jaw
Shortness of breath or a feeling of not being able to get enough air
Nausea, vomiting, indigestion, sweating, extreme fatigue, or a feeling of light-headedness
Passing out or going into cardiac arrest
An innate sense or feeling of impending doom

3. Know your risk factors

There are some factors you cannot control, such as genetics, race, gender, and family history. But there are many you can manage and even avoid. These include Smoking, Blood Pressure, Cholesterol, Excessive Alcohol consumption, Weight, Exercise, Mood, Healthy Teeth and Gums, and several more.

4. Exercise and Eat Right

Ask your physician for a referral to a physical therapist to begin an exercise program designed for heart health and overall fitness. If you already exercise, have an injury, or are struggling with exercising, go see a physical therapist to make sure your program is the best to meet your needs and goals.

5. Be happy!

Smile more. Be in a good mood. Studies have shown that happier people are healthier people. They have lower heart rates, blood pressure, and cholesterol and have a longer life span and positive outlook on life.