President Lyndon B. Johnson established February as American Heart Health Month in December 1963. The first Friday of American Heart Month is also National Wear Red Day as initiated by the American Heart Association to bring awareness about heart disease in women.

The American Heart Association created My Life Check ®: an interactive online tool that helps people assess and track their heart health information and gain a better understanding of their risk of heart disease and stroke. Each participant will assess the following seven risk factors to determine what lifestyle changes are needed to reduce the risk of heart disease.

1. Stop Smoking
2. Moderately Intense Exercise for 150 minutes per week
3. Diet high in fiber, nuts, fruits, Mediterranean diet
4. Blood Pressure: 120/80 mm Hg
5. Cholesterol: Less than 200 mg/dl
6. Sugars: A1C below 5.7%
7. Waist circumference less than 35” for women, 40” for men

Symptoms of a Heart Attack

Symptoms can vary from person to person and even from one episode to another in the same person. Some come on suddenly, and others give plenty of warning. The cardiovascular system requires a continuous supply of oxygen-rich blood to operate properly and for good heart health. When there is a disruption in the supply, risk of having a heart attack increases. So, what are the symptoms to look our for?

Heart Attack Symptoms in Men

1. Chest pain/discomfort
2. Nausea
3. Indigestion
4. Heartburn
5. Shortness of breath
6. Cold sweat
7. Fatigue
8. Lightheadedness or sudden dizziness

Heart Attack Symptoms in Women

1. Jaw pain
2. Back pain
3. Shortness of breath
4. Nausea
5. Vomiting
6. Sweating
7. Flu-like symptoms

Ways to Prevent Heart Disease

With 80% of heart disease being preventable, there are ways to stay on top of your health. Know your Heart Smart Numbers (blood pressure, cholesterol, sugars and weight) and talk to your family to see if your genetic history puts you more at risk. Make a conscious choice to pick one thing each day to get yourself in to a healthier state of mind psychologically and physically and live your best life. Healthline labels fifteen heart healthy foods to incorporate into your diet:

1. Leafy green vegetables
2. Whole grains
3. Berries
4. Avocados
5. Fatty fish and fish oil
6. Walnuts
7. Beans
8. Dark chocolate
9. Tomatoes
10. Almonds
11. Seeds
12. Garlic
13. Olive oil
14. Edamame
15. Green tea

At American Online Benefits Group we offer products that help our members lead a healthy lifestyle by warding off or treating heart disease. Contact our Agent or Member Services today for more information at 214-389-9072.

If you think you’re having a heart attack, call 911.