February is National Heart Month

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Feb 1, 2022 | Cheyanne Bell | @cheyannebell1

We invite you to follow along throughout the month of February as we share stories, spread awareness and educate on the preventative measures you can take at home to promote heart health.

Did you know heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States? Certain types of heart disease, such as heart defects and genetic heart rhythm diseases cannot be prevented. However, lifestyle changes to reduce the risk of heart disease may help prevent heart arrhythmias.

A heart-healthy lifestyle includes:

• Eating a heart-healthy diet
• Staying physically active
• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Not smoking
• Limiting or avoiding caffeine and alcohol
• Reducing stress, as intense stress and anger can cause heart rhythm problems
• Using medications as directed and telling your doctor about all the medicines you take, including those bought without a prescription

What are you doing to improve your heart health? Let us know in the comments and share your ideas with other community members!

FUN FACT: National Wear Red Day is February 4th. Join us as we wear red this Friday to support and promote heart health.

Meet other people talking about genetic heart disorders on Mayo Clinic Connect. Join the Heart Rhythm Conditions group to join the conversation, share experiences, ask questions, and discover your support network.

For up-to-date information, please follow Dr. Ackerman and the Windland Smith Rice Genetic Heart Rhythm Clinic on Twitter by clicking the links below.