February is Heart Health Awareness Month, and it’s also the time for Red Feb, a national initiative dedicated to raising awareness about heart health and supporting the Heart Research Foundation. Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in Australia, yet many cases are preventable through lifestyle changes and regular health checks.
Why Heart Health Matters
Your heart is the engine that powers your body, pumping blood, oxygen, and nutrients to keep you going every day. When your heart isn’t functioning properly, it can affect every aspect of your health and wellbeing. Conditions such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes are all significant risk factors for heart disease, but with the right guidance and preventative care, you can reduce these risks and protect your heart.
Symptoms of a Heart Attack: Men vs. Women
Recognising the symptoms of a heart attack can save lives. However, it’s essential to know that the symptoms may differ between men and women.
• Men: Commonly report severe chest pain, often described as a heavy or tight feeling, along with pain radiating to the arm, neck, or jaw.
• Women: Symptoms are often less obvious and may include nausea, dizziness, fatigue, shortness of breath, or discomfort in the back, neck, or jaw.
In an emergency, always call 000. Early treatment is critical.
Proactive Steps for Heart Health
The good news is that there are several simple and effective ways to keep your heart healthy.
Here are our top tips:
1. Eat a Balanced Diet: Focus on whole foods, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Limit processed foods, salt, and sugar.
2. Exercise Regularly: Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate activity most days of the week. Walking, swimming, or cycling are excellent options.
3. Stay Hydrated: Drink 8 to 10 glasses of water daily to support overall health.
4. Quit Smoking and Limit Alcohol: Smoking significantly increases your risk of heart disease, while excessive alcohol intake can contribute to high blood pressure and weight gain.
5. Manage Stress: Practice mindfulness, yoga, or deep breathing exercises to reduce stress levels and support heart health.
6. Monitor Your Health: Keep track of your blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and blood sugar levels.
The Importance of Regular Heart Health Checks
Regular heart health checks with your GP are essential to understand and manage your risk of heart disease. These checks are particularly important for:
• Individuals aged 45 and older
• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples aged 30 and older
During a heart health check, your GP will assess factors such as your blood pressure, cholesterol levels, weight, lifestyle, and family history to determine your risk of heart disease and create a personalised plan to lower it.
Family Doctors Plus are committed to helping our community stay healthy. If you have concerns about your heart health or want to schedule a Heart Health Check, the experienced team is here to help. Book your appointment today: www.familydoctorsplus.com.au/appointments or call us on (07) 3357 8192.
Let’s work together to prioritise your heart health this February and beyond.
