The human heart beats more than 2.5 billion times during an average lifetime, working to deliver oxygen and nutrients to every organ and remove waste products. However, when the heart fails, the consequences can be life-threatening.
Heart disease encompasses conditions such as coronary artery disease, heart valve disorders, electrical abnormalities and heart failure. It affects millions worldwide. Whether congenital or acquired, these conditions often develop over time, with lifestyle choices and genetic predispositions playing critical roles.
At Northside Hospital Heart Institute, we understand that heart health is not a singular event but a lifelong journey. Our cardiology team is dedicated to addressing heart health across the lifespan — from early adulthood through managing chronic conditions later in life.
The importance of maintaining a healthy heart
Heart disease is the leading cause of death globally, but many risk factors can be modified. By adopting healthy lifestyle habits, we can significantly reduce the risk of heart disease and improve quality of life.
Improved heart health extends beyond the cardiovascular system. It has been linked to a lower risk of other chronic conditions, including cancer, dementia, kidney disease and cognitive decline. It is also essential for maintaining the function of other vital organs, including the lungs, kidneys and brain.
Daily steps to improve cardiac health
The American Heart Association has developed a framework for cardiovascular health known as "Life’s Essential 8." These lifestyle factors include:
- Healthy diet: Focus on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins and healthy fats while limiting processed foods, sodium and sugar.
- Physical activity: Aim for at least 2.5 hours of moderate or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise each week. Activities such as walking, swimming and cycling are excellent for heart health.
- Avoidance of tobacco: Smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke are major contributors to heart disease.
- Sleep health: Prioritize quality sleep each night.
- Maintain a healthy weight: Achieve and maintain a healthy weight and body mass index (BMI).
- Manage cholesterol: Keep LDL ("bad" cholesterol) low and HDL ("good" cholesterol) high to prevent plaque buildup in the arteries.
- Control blood glucose: Manage blood sugar levels, as uncontrolled blood sugar can damage blood vessels over time.
- Manage blood pressure: Keep blood pressure within a healthy range.
By incorporating these factors into daily life, individuals can significantly improve heart health and lower the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Recognizing the signs of heart disease
Recognizing the signs and symptoms of heart disease early is crucial. Common symptoms include:
- Chest pain or discomfort (angina)
- Shortness of breath, especially during physical activity or while lying down
- Fatigue and weakness
- Swelling in the legs, ankles or abdomen due to fluid retention
- Coughing or wheezing, particularly when lying flat
- Palpitations or irregular heartbeat
Anyone experiencing these symptoms should seek medical advice promptly. Early diagnosis and intervention can improve outcomes and prevent complications.
A lifelong commitment to heart health
The early stages of atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries) can begin in childhood and progress over time. Encouraging healthy habits from childhood into adulthood can help delay or prevent the onset of heart disease.
Pregnancy is a unique period with long-term implications for cardiovascular health. Conditions such as pre-eclampsia and gestational diabetes increase the risk of heart disease later in life, highlighting the importance of managing these risks.
Northside Hospital Heart Institute leverages the latest innovations in cardiology to improve patient outcomes. Technological advancements in imaging, minimally invasive procedures and cutting-edge treatments equip us to manage cardiovascular conditions effectively.
The cornerstone of successful care is a strong doctor-patient relationship built on trust, education and evidence-based treatment. At Northside, we work with each patient to develop personalized, evidence-based approaches to address immediate concerns and support long-term heart health.
Every patient is unique and creating tailored treatment plans is both an art and a science. Whether preventing heart disease, treating acute conditions, performing life-saving procedures or managing chronic disease, our team is dedicated to improving patients' quality of life.
It’s never too late to make positive changes for better heart health.
Learn more from Northside Hospital Heart Institute.
