Did you know that Heart Disease is the leading cause of death in Americans, both in men and women? February is American Heart Disease month, and to honor the importance of preventing Heart Disease, Massapequa Pain Management and Rehabilitation is helping spread the word about the condition and what we can all do to reduce the risk of ourselves and loved ones.

Signs and Symptoms of a Heart Attack and Stroke

While prevention is the first line of defense against heart disease, knowing the signs and symptoms of heart attack and stroke can help save a life or reduce the damage done by these events.

Symptoms of a heart attack:

• Chest discomfort, including pressure or a feeling of ‘squeezing.’
• Pain or discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw or stomach.
• Shortness of breath.

Symptoms of a stroke:

• Drooping of the face or numbness
• Weakness in the arms.
• Difficulty with speech, including slurring or inability to speak simple sentences.

The Good News

The prevention of heart disease can be aided by making some lifestyle adjustments. By inputting these changes, you can help keep your heart and your body healthy! Below are some effective methods for maintaining a healthy heart:

• Monitor your weight.
• Refrain from smoking and limit your drinking of alcoholic beverages.
• Keep your cholesterol in mind, while also monitoring your blood pressure.
• Eat healthy! Reduce salts and sugars, and add colorful vegetables to your diet.
• Stay active! Even taking short walks can go a long way in maintaining your overall health & wellness.
• The American Heart Association suggests that a cup of coffee a week can reduce your risk of stroke.
• Get enough sleep! It can help control your weight and reduce blood pressure.

Aside from heart-healthy benefits, exercise and eating right can have copious other benefits! Consider visiting with your chiropractor or physical therapist and ask them to outline a personalized regimen for keeping you healthy and in shape. Your physical therapist can even put together a heart-healthy training regimen, focusing on promoting cardio and other benefits.

Ways to Get Involved in Your Community’s Heart Health

• When our communities are healthy, we all feel better. Ways to get involved in your community’s heart health:
• Host or attend an American Heart Month event at your local library, school or health center.
• Contact your local Red Cross and get trained in CPR and AED techniques that can save someone who is in cardiac arrest.
• Host a walking group in your office or community! Physical activity is fun and groups encourage accountability and good health habits.
• Spread the word! Talk to your friends and family about the importance of healthy eating, physical activity, and eliminating unhealthy habits.

By following these helpful tips, we can all promote good heart health for ourselves and our loved ones. For further health-related guidance and info, please contact our office today!