Examining Ways to Maintain Heart Health and Prevent Heart Disease in Illinois

Examining Ways to Maintain Heart Health and Prevent Heart Disease in Illinois

One of my extended family members in the Chicago area passed away suddenly last year due to a heart attack. He was obese, had high blood pressure, and didn’t always eat a heart-healthy diet. Since his passing, I’ve had time to process the loss and learn more about heart disease.

February is American Heart Month to raise awareness about heart health. Considering the loss of my uncle, I want to examine ways to maintain heart health and prevent heart disease in Illinois.

What is Heart Disease?

Heart disease is also known as cardiovascular disease, coronary heart disease, or coronary artery disease. These terms refer to a condition called atherosclerosis, which is characterized by the buildup of plaque in the heart’s arteries. This typically presents in the form of a heart attack, stroke, arrhythmia, or heart valve problems.

“When individuals think about heart disease, they often think about blockages in the arteries. But the reality is that it’s problems with muscle function, valve function, the lining of the heart, and the electrical system. It’s much broader than blockages, although that tends to be the most common presentation of heart disease,” says Northwestern Medicine Cardiologist Micah J. Eimer, MD.

Fortunately, many people have listened to healthcare professionals and made strides in preventing and treating heart disease, resulting in better overall heart health.

According to Dr. Eimer, there has been a decline in the number of deaths in Illinois and across the country due to heart disease or heart attack over the last several decades.

10 Facts About the Heart and Heart Disease

Risk Factors

• Overweight and obesity
• Unhealthy diet
• Physical inactivity
• Excessive alcohol use
• Uncontrolled high blood pressure
• Diabetes
• Smoking

Heart Disease Prevention

There are ways to reduce these and other risks, like adopting a healthy diet and incorporating physical activity into your routine. The key is to find something you enjoy doing, like walking with friends.

Dr. Eimer suggests, ”People should be finding out if they have non-obstructive coronary disease. These are minor blockages that aren’t causing symptoms or detected by a stress test, but can lead to a heart attack in the future. Your primary care provider or cardiologist may use a blood test or recommend a coronary calcium scan to better determine your risk.”

Heart Health Recommendations

• Life’s Essential 8: The American Heart Association advocates for focusing on diet, physical activity, nicotine avoidance, sleep, weight management, and controlling blood sugar, cholesterol, and blood pressure.
• Small Lifestyle Changes: Experts suggest setting small, achievable goals, such as taking the stairs twice daily or reducing processed foods.
• Nutritious Diet: Incorporate healthy fats (olive oil, nuts) and lean proteins (salmon, tofu) while avoiding excessive red meat and processed foods. 

For personalized advice, individuals should consult with a healthcare professional in the Kankakee area to develop a tailored heart health plan.

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Source:

Northwestern Medicine

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