If you are experiencing any of these issues, we recommend that you seek medical attention. (Always call 911 if you think you are having a heart attack or stroke.)
Your doctor will first ask you questions about your lifestyle and behaviors to assess your risk factors, Smith says, and then you’ll be tested (or referred to a cardiologist) to find out more about what’s going on.
Outside of the doctor’s office, there’s still work to be done. Suzanne Steinbaum, M.D., a volunteer medical specialist for the American Heart Association’s Go Red for Women campaign and a cardiologist in New York City, recommends taking steps to improve your overall heart health. Start by watching your blood pressure; a normal range is 120/80 or lower.
“High blood pressure is a major risk factor for heart disease and stroke,” Steinbaum says. “Watching your diet, exercising, and embracing stress management are key to lowering your blood pressure.”
Cholesterol also plays an important role: For adults, total cholesterol levels should be around 200 or below (the lower the better). LDL cholesterol (known as bad cholesterol) should be below 100 for both women and men. HDL (good cholesterol) should be above 40 for men and 50 for women.
“High cholesterol contributes to plaque formation, which can clog arteries and lead to heart disease and stroke,” Steinbaum said. “Controlling cholesterol gives you the best chance of keeping your arteries clear. Cholesterol can often be managed with dietary changes, such as increasing amounts of vegetables, whole grains, and fruits and incorporating healthy fats. Reducing saturated fats is also an important part of this.”
Finally, do as much exercise as you can. The American Heart Association recommends about 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week. (Here’s a list of activities you can do to reach this goal — no boring cardio needed!)
“Living an active lifestyle is one of the most valuable gifts you can give to yourself and your loved ones,” Steinbaum says. “Simply put, daily physical activity increases longevity and quality of life.”
This article was originally published on Huffington Post.