Heart Health Starts with You

Jan. 31, 2025

Valentine's Day is just around the corner and hearts are everywhere you look. It's the perfect time to remember to care for the one that truly matters, your number one supporter, your heart! February is National Heart Health Month, a time to focus on the importance of our hearts in keeping us healthy. After all, our hearts do much more than hold love; they keep our bodies running, beating an average of 100,000 times a day. This month, as awareness grows, take a moment to reflect on your heart health and consider if you might be at a higher risk for heart disease.

Family History:

Did you know that you can inherit genes that put you at a higher risk of high cholesterol, high blood pressure, or other cardiovascular issues that can lead to heart disease? It’s important to keep your family history in mind when talking with your doctor to find ways to lessen the added risk. Additionally, heart disease often affects women differently than men, so paying closer attention to the health of relatives of the same gender can offer valuable insights into your own risk.

Differences in Women and Men:

Heart health can look very different for women and men, but this important distinction often doesn't get the attention it deserves, especially regarding risk factors. For instance, heart disease tends to develop 5-10 years later in women than in men. The average age for a man's first heart attack is 65, while for a woman, it's 72. Additionally, women with type 2 diabetes face a significantly higher risk of heart disease compared to men with the same condition. Regardless of gender, staying proactive about your heart health is crucial; the earlier you focus on it, the better.  

Type of Heart Diseases:

The differences between men and women when it comes to heart disease can make a difference in when these diseases can affect you; however, it’s crucial to keep the main cardiovascular issues in the back of your mind.

  • Arrhythmias: Irregular heart rhythms

  • Heart Attack: When a coronary artery becomes completely blocked, causing heart muscle damage

  • Heart Valve Disease: Dysfunction of the heart valves, which can prevent proper blood flow

  • Stroke: A blockage of a blood vessel in the brain

Mental Side of Heart Disease:

If you or a loved one are dealing with a heart disease, it is very important to remain positive through this difficult time. Improved mental health truly does help improve your physical health. It’s all about having a positive mindset! It can be difficult, but it is very necessary! 

Ways to Say Positive:

Healthy habits are key to maintaining a strong heart and taking small steps toward positive change:

  • Engraving new healthy habits to maintain a healthier heart

  • Emphasize personal strength

  • Maintaining a strong sleep schedule (8 hours a night)

  • Spend quality time with family and friends 

  • Go for walks and exercise once a day

  • Try new and relaxing activities to take your mind off the stress

Our Services To Show Your Heart a Little Love:

Here at “NY Health,” we provide multiple radiology services that we can use to look at your heart!

  • Transthoracic Echocardiogram: A noninvasive ultrasound using high-frequency soundwaves to create moving images of your heart through the chest wall

  • CT Scan: An imaging test that uses X-rays to take detailed images of your heart and its blood vessels

If you recognize any risk factors, don’t wait. Show your heart some love and start the conversation with your healthcare provider today! 

 

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