Living with Heart Disease

The effects of heart disease have impacted many families in one way or another.  Whether it is a relative or yourself, knowing what the symptoms of heart disease are, how to manage your health to reduce the risk of heart attack and other heart related problems can not only can be useful information but could also safe a life.  One of the most common causes of heart disease is caused by narrowing or blockage of the coronary arteries, which is called coronary artery disease and happens slowly over time. It’s the major reason people have heart attacks.  Other kinds of heart problems may happen to the valves in the heart, or the heart may not pump well and cause heart failure according to the NIH: National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute.  Steps such as controlling your blood pressure, lowering your cholesterol, not smoking, and getting enough exercise all can help to reduce your risk of heart disease.  If you feel that you may be at risk, speak with your health care professional and continue to monitor your health closely.  You only have one heart, so do your best to make your health and your heart have longevity by being health smart.