February is known as the month of love. Chocolate, flowers, jewelry, and cards are among the heavily advertised and gifted items. Partners propose, and high-end restaurants jack up prices because the demand to eat out on this special day surpasses supply. Acts of kindness for teachers, spouses, partners, parents, and co-workers everywhere represent loving emotions felt from the heart.

February also represents other heart matters. This year marks is the 57th consecutive American Heart Month. As one of the millions of Americans who have suffered heart attacks, Lydon B. Johnson first proclaimed the national observance in 1964. The goal of American Heart Month is to bring more awareness to the largely preventable disease.

Heart Disease’s Impact

Yes, heart disease is still the leading cause of death in the United States. The number of deaths is staggering. In 2020, there were more deaths from heart disease than the coronavirus. Annually, heart disease kills more people than cancer.

Causes are complex and multifacet and include genetics, nutrition, and exercise. Studies suggest that mental stress and anxiety are also contributors. Economics, environment, and education are relevant and fundamental elements as well.

With that said, remedies to prevent and/or manage heart disease include proper rest, a predominately plant-based diet, moderate exercise, meditation, and a supportive community.

A Tool To Monitor Heart Disease

A tool that can significantly impact is self-monitoring blood pressure at home. Nowadays, blood pressure cuffs are relatively inexpensive and easy to read. As a result, often home readings are more accurate than in-office visits at predicting cardiovascular events.

White-coat Hypertension

A phenomenon known as white-coat hypertension is when your blood pressure is elevated because of the anxiety of being in the doctor’s office.   White-coat hypertension can lead to overtreatment. It is also possible to get a false normal reading at the doctor’s. Instead, it is more accurate to record readings regularly. This action can potentially lower hospital visits and help people be more aware of what is known as the silent killer.

Often, People Don’t Realize When Their Blood Pressure Is Elevated

High blood pressure or hypertension is when the force of blood flowing through blood vessels is consistently too high. For example, if the reading is consistently 130 milliliters systolic (the top number) or greater, and a diastolic number (the bottom number) is 80 or higher, it is considered high blood pressure.

Enjoy your chocolates and lavish meals on Valentine’s Day, but also give a true gift of love by making strides to fight this deadly disease. It will do your heart good.