On Valentine's Day, love your heart

By Julie Jordan
Published February 14, 2018
heart health

Valentine’s Day is about celebrating those you love, but if the muscle in your chest pumping oxygenated blood to all your vital organs – the heart – can’t do its job well, show your heart some love first.

“The heart is vital to the health of every part of the body,” said Monyette Childs, M.D., M.P.H., cardiovascular health program manager for the Georgia Department of Public Health. “If disease weakens the heart, the body’s organs won't receive enough blood to work normally.”  

Cardiovascular disease, or heart disease, is the leading cause of death in Georgia. In 2016, it accounted for 30 percent of deaths, 133,863 hospitalizations and $8.8 billion in hospital charges.

“Heart disease is a disease of the heart and blood vessels,” said Childs. “The most common is coronary artery disease, where a substance called plaque builds up in the arteries that supply blood to the heart. It is the number one killer of men and women in the United States. Coronary artery disease can lead to decreased blood flow to the heart muscle, which can cause a heart attack.”

Childs suggests Georgians use the American Heart Association’s list of seven small steps to make big changes in heart health called, “Life’s Simple 7.” To get your heart on track for a long, productive life, start with one or two and make a goal to achieve all seven.

Life’s Simple 7

  1. Manage blood pressure.
  2. Control cholesterol.
  3. Reduce blood sugar.
  4. Get active.
  5. Eat better.
  6. Lose weight.
  7. Stop smoking.

“See your doctor to discuss your risk for heart disease and check your blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar,” said Childs. “Then, work with your doctor to develop an action plan for a healthier life. You can also develop an action plan at mylifecheck.heart.org.”  

The signs that heart health is declining can vary, depending on the type of heart disease. For many people, the first sign is chest discomfort or a heart attack. Heart attack symptoms include chest discomfort, discomfort in other areas of the upper body, shortness of breath, lightheadedness, weakness, nausea, vomiting or a cold sweat. Anyone having these signs should call 911, and get to the hospital. Even if you’re not sure, you should get checked out.