Heart health facts and tips for

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THE HEART OF THE MATTER

Facts on heart disease and how to maintain heart health in honor of American Heart Month

SOURCE: CENTER FOR DISEASE CONTROL

WHAT IS HEART DISEASE?

According to the CDC, heart disease is the leading cause of death in the U.S. The phrase "heart disease" acts as an umbrella term for an array of conditions regarding the cardiovascular system. There are many types of heart disease, with the most common in the U.S. being coronary artery disease. Signs and symptoms can include chest pain, shortness of breath and pain in the neck, jaw or throat. Heart disease can be caused by numerous things, including diseased heart tissue, abnormal heart rhythm and general heart defects.

TIPS TO PROMOTE HEART HEALTH:

SOURCE: MAYO CLINIC

TYPES OF

HEART DISEASE:

CORONARY ARTERY DISEASE

Damage to the heart's major blood vessels: the pulmonary artery, the pulmonary vein, the aorta and the superior and inferior vena cava veins

CONGESTIVE HEART FAILURE

Chronic condition in which the heart's muscles are unable to pump blood as efficiently as they should due to fluid build up in the heart

KATIE HOLLAND

health & sports editor

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ARRHYTHMIA

Abnormalities in the rhythm of the heartbeat and the heart's contractions; can be both too fast or too slow

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HEART VALVE DISEASE

Condition in which one or more of the heart's four valves operates abnormally or has been damaged

Be sure to get at least an hour of cardiovascular exercise each day and maintain a healthy diet. Avoid risky behaviors like smoking and drinking that heighten the risk of getting heart disease. Monitor blood pressure and heart rate regularly. Seek medical attention if any abnormalities are present.