SAN MARCOS — CHRISTUS Health recognizes American Heart Month as a time to bring awareness to the body’s most vital organ and educate people on how to keep it healthy.
According to the American Heart Association, heart disease is the leading cause of death for adults in the U.S., killing approximately 630,000 Americans each year.
“Heart disease is an umbrella term that encompass a wide range of conditions affecting both the heart and blood vessels, including coronary artery disease, congestive heart failure, arrhythmias, endocarditis and congenital heart defects,” said Dr. Gil Birnbaum, clinical director of electrophysiology with CHRISTUS Santa Rosa Hospital–San Marcos. “Prevention is the most effective strategy for maintaining heart health.”
According to a news release, Birnbaum said screenings for hypertension can start at age 18, though cholesterol screenings are recommended at age 30.
“Regular exercise and a balanced, heart-healthy diet can make a significant difference in reducing your risk,” he said.
People with a family history of heart disease, high blood pressure or high cholesterol should be particularly vigilant, Birnbaum added.
“It is critical to pay attention to heart health, especially for those with a genetic predisposition,” he said, as heart disease can present differently among men and women.
“For some women, symptoms may include chest discomfort, palpitations, shortness of breath, sudden fatigue or swelling in the lower extremities, such as the feet, ankles or legs,” he said.
He stressed the importance of establishing a relationship with a primary care physician who can assess individual health habits and family history.
“Your primary care physician can use this information to guide proactive recommendations for heart health and determine the appropriate level of intervention when necessary,” Birnbaum said. “Care options can range from routine screenings and minimally invasive procedures to more complex treatments, depending on individual needs.”
To learn more about heart disease, visit bit.ly/3Ek53br.
