Houston Methodist cardiologists say it’s time to listen to your heart Experts available for interview upon request

HOUSTON, TX -- Cheeseburgers and fries may taste like love at first bite, but frequent indulgence can break your heart — literally. February is American Heart Month, and Houston Methodist cardiologists are urging people to show their heart some love. Heart disease continues to be the leading cause of death in the United States, but small changes like eating smarter, staying active and managing risk factors can prevent heart disease.

DID YOU KNOW?

▪ Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, with nearly one in five in deaths related to heart disease.

▪ Every 40 seconds someone dies from heart disease.

▪ High blood pressure is a leading cause of heart disease, and nearly half of U.S. adults have high blood pressure. Only 1 in 4 people with high blood pressure have it under control.

Heart disease is an umbrella term which describes a variety of issues that can affect your heart, such as:

▪ Coronary artery disease: Fatty deposits which make the heart’s blood vessels narrow. ▪ Arrhythmias: Abnormal heart rhythms keeping the heart from beating in a regular pattern.

▪ Heart valve diseases: Valves that are too narrow or don’t close properly can reduce blood flow.

▪ Cardiomyopathy: Stiff or thickened heart muscle is unable to pump blood well. ▪ Heart failure: The heart can’t pump blood well enough to keep up with the body’s needs.

▪ Congenital heart disease: Problems with how the heart formed before birth prevent normal blood flow.

▪ Pericardial issues: A stiff or inflamed sac (pericardium) around the heart presses on the organ.

Heart disease often starts subtly. Common warning signs include chest pain, shortness of breath, swelling in the legs, fatigue and dizziness. Other symptoms may include palpitations, sweating, indigestion, nausea and trouble sleeping. For women in particular, heart disease may also present itself as jaw, back, neck or stomach pain.

Individuals with high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, obesity, a family history of heart disease or those who use tobacco, eat poorly or lead a sedentary lifestyle are at greater risk of developing heart disease.

Heart disease prevention is possible. By managing health conditions, going to routine exams, staying active, quitting tobacco and choosing healthier foods, risk for heart disease is greatly reduced.

“Prevention saves lives,” Dr. Kanval Shah, cardiologist at Houston Methodist The Woodlands Hospital said. “Testing early and managing risk factors can save your heart and ultimately your life.”

American Heart Month is a time to educate, advocate and act. If you or someone you know is at risk for heart disease, visit Houston Methodist online or call our cardiology team at 281.619.5658 to begin your care journey.