February is also observed as Hearth Month. Heart disease is any problem affecting the heart or vessels in the heart. These complications can lead to a stroke and/or heart attack, which may be fatal. In the United States, one in every four die of heart disease. In 2004, nearly 60 per cent more women died from cardiovascular disease (both heart disease and stroke) than from all cancers combined.

Prevent Heart disease

Know your blood pressure. Consistently high blood pressure can lead to heart disease. Have your blood pressure checked every year and get treatment if you need it. Consistently high blood pressure damage artery walls, causing them to become stiff and narrow.

Don't smoke

Smoking increases your risk of heart disease.

Diabetes

People with diabetes have high blood glucose (often called sugar). This raises your chances of getting heart disease.

Maintain a healthy weight

Being overweight increases your risk of heart disease. Healthy food choices and physical activity are important to maintain a healthy heart.

Alcohol

This increases your risk of heart disease.

Stress

Stress increases damage to the heart. Find ways to relieve stress daily.

Hypertension

Heart disease frequently develops in persons with hypertension. As a result of the sustained elevation of blood pressure, the muscle of the heart becomes thicker and eventually the heart becomes enlarged. Changes take place in the blood vessels (which carry oxygen and other substances to the heart muscles) which lead to the narrowing or complete closure of the vessel. This narrowing can be the result of an accumulation of fatty deposits on the walls of the vessels.

High Cholesterol

Cholesterol is a soft, fat-like substance that is found in the cells of your body and also in certain animal-based foods.

Symptoms

Heart disease often has no symptoms. However, some signs to look for include chest or arm pain or discomfort which can be a symptom of heart disease and a warning sign of a heart attack.

Shortness of breath (feeling like you can't get enough air), dizziness, nausea (feeling sick to your stomach), abnormal heartbeats or feeling very tired are also signs.

Other signs

Feeling faint or woozy

Breaking out in a cold sweat

pain in the back, neck or jaw.

Women are more likely to have less-common signs of a heart attack, including:

Heartburn

Loss of appetite

Feeling tired or weak

Coughing

Sources

http://www.4woman.gov/faq/heart-disease.cfm#a

www.heartfoundation.org.jm