2022 marks the 57th
American Heart Month
A greater understanding of heart disease can bring forth positive changes. Check out the Top Heart Disease and Stroke Research Advances of 2021.
The More you know
Get educated
What Is Heart Disease?
Cardiovascular disease is a group of conditions that affect the heart and blood vessels of your body including: heart disease, heart attack, stroke, heart failure, arrhythmia, and more. It is important to understand what causes each of these and what they look like so they can be prevented, or spotted if they do occur.
recognize the signs
How To Spot An Acute Sign
Heart attacks and strokes are acute events caused by a blockage that prevents blood from flowing to the heart or brain. These events are often the first signs of cardiovascular disease. Being able to spot the signs and symptoms of heart attacks and strokes, such as chest discomfort, shortness of breath and difficulty speaking, are critical to finding immediate care for a better recovery.
keep your heart healthy
Protecting Your Heart
A common myth about heart disease is that there’s not much you can do to prevent it if it already runs in your family but, that’s completely false! You can actively protect your heart every day through self-care, managing stress, staying active, eating heart-healthy foods, and so much more. Click below for fact sheets that encourage us with ways to take care of our hearts, together.
Blood Pressure
Almost 50% of the United States has high blood pressure, also known as hypertension, and half of those Americans have no idea how at risk they really are. Hypertension happens when the force of blood flowing through veins and arteries is consistently too high and is a major risk factor for heart disease. Because hypertension often lacks symptoms, the only way to know if you have it is to measure your blood pressure regularly, which can be done at home in addition to the doctor’s office. Please see our resources below for blood pressure information and tracking to know if you are at risk.
COVID-19
Due to the pandemic, there has been a decline in both doctors office and hospital visits. This decline comes at the same time as an increase in poor lifestyle behaviors, including: drinking, smoking and more time spent sedentary. These lifestyle behaviors increase the risk of hypertension and heart disease, making it even more important to be aware of your own blood pressure and the signs and symptoms of cardiovascular disease.
Even in the midst of a pandemic, the hospital is still the safest place to go whenever a medical emergency strikes. Don’t Die of Doubt: if you or someone you know exhibits any sign of heart attack or stroke, call 911 immediately. You have a better chance fighting the coronavirus with a strong heart, rather than a broken one.
Take action
wellness resources
Heart Health Page
GatorCare offers resources and education to help manage your heart’s health through behavior and lifestyle modification. With simple changes in diet, medication, and exercise you and your doctor may reduce your risk of heart disease or stroke.
february 1
Healthy Lifestyle Program
Join the Healthy Lifestyle Program for six free, live, virtual sessions exploring different aspects of creating a healthy lifestyle. Each session will focus on a specific health topic including goal setting, physical activity, nutrition, energy balance, stress management, and resilience.Â
February 17
Heart Smart Series
Join this six-week virtual series for live classes covering various aspects of heart disease and stroke prevention. Individuals with any risk factor for heart disease or stroke, such as high blood pressure or elevated LDL cholesterol, are encouraged to participate. Complete the registration to join. Classes are Thursdays at noon.
life saving training
CPR/AED & First Aid
Get CPR certified with GatorCPR to deliver first aid in a safe and effective way in any situation. Both classroom and online/blended learning is offered. No background medical training is required for this potentially life saving training you can carry with you for life!
