Are You Being Bad to Your Heart?
By Sara Butler
Heart disease kills millions of people every year. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention state that heart disease is the number one killer of Americans. Sadly, about one-quarter of the deaths from heart disease are preventable. There are some easy changes you can make to your lifestyle that are a little kinder to your heart. Here are a few of the things you may be doing now that you can change for a healthier heart.
Know the Signs
Do you know the signs of a heart attack beyond chest pain? Well, a heart attack may not strike you as you've seen on television or in the movies. Heart disease impacts men and women in equal numbers but heart attack symptoms can be a lot different for women than they can for men.
The National Heart Association says that women experience these symptoms when having a heart attack:
- A feeling of fullness in the chest
- Pressure in the chest
- Pain in the back, neck, shoulders, arm, either arm or jaw
- Cold sweats
- Vomiting
- Shortness of breath
- Feeling lightheaded
- Extreme fatigue
Any of these symptoms may mean you're having a heart attack, so err on the side of safety and get some help if you experience them.
You Don't Floss
Who would've thought that flossing could impact your heart? Well, it can! A link between heart disease and gum disease has been established, which is why taking care of your gums is essential if you want to take care of your heart. An infection in the gums can cause bacteria to enter your bloodstream and impact the health of your heart.
Make sure to see your dentist regularly and floss once per day to help keep your gums (and your heart) healthy!
You Don't Like Dogs
If you're not a dog lover, you should think about becoming one for the sake of your heart. Owning a dog can help you to lower your risk of heart disease, according to the American Heart Association. Plus, dogs make great companions that love to be walked, and getting out for exercise is a benefit to your dog and your heart. Adopt a dog and see how much healthier your heart can be!
You have to take care of your heart if you expect it to take care of you! So make sure to talk to the chiropractors at The Joint Chiropractic if you have any questions about your heart health.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Northbrook, Ill.