“Any patient stories shared here are composites drawn from my more than 20 years in medical practice. They are not about any single individual, but rather reflect patterns, themes, and experiences I have encountered across many patients over time. Details have been intentionally blended or altered to protect privacy while still illustrating real-world clinical lessons.”
Heart disease runs in my family—on both sides.
My maternal grandfather rarely sought medical care. In 1980, at age 64, he suffered a fatal heart attack while at work. Years later, in 1994, his daughter—my maternal aunt—who had longstanding heart disease related to chronic tobacco and alcohol use, began feeling unwell one morning. She chose to lie down and rest before work. She never woke up. She was 53.
Both deaths were preventable.
This is not abstract for me. It is personal.
February is American Heart Month, a time to focus on the health of the organ that works hardest for you, your heart. Heart disease remains the leading cause of death for both men and women in the United States, but the encouraging news is that most cardiovascular disease is preventable with simple, consistent lifestyle choices.
At Dominion Health Family Wellness Center, we believe prevention starts with awareness—and small changes that add up over time.
Why Heart Health Matters
Your heart beats about 100,000 times a day, delivering oxygen and nutrients to every organ in your body. When blood vessels become narrowed or blocked due to plaque buildup, it increases the risk of:
●Heart attack
●Stroke
●Heart failure
●Peripheral artery disease
Many people with heart disease have no symptoms until a major event occurs, which is why prevention and screening are so important.
Know Your Numbers
One of the most powerful steps you can take is knowing your key cardiovascular health numbers:
- Blood pressure
- Cholesterol levels
- Blood sugar (A1C or fasting glucose)
- Body mass index (BMI)
- Waist circumference
High blood pressure and high cholesterol often have no warning signs, but they significantly increase cardiovascular risk. Routine annual exams allow us to identify concerns early and create a personalized prevention plan.
5 Heart-Healthy Habits
You don’t need a complete life overhaul. Focus on sustainable changes:
- Move your body daily
Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate activity most days of the week—brisk walking counts.
Eat with your heart in mind
- Prioritize vegetables, fruits, lean proteins, whole grains, nuts, and healthy fats. Limit highly processed foods, excess sodium, and added sugars.
- Manage stress intentionally
Chronic stress affects blood pressure and inflammation. Consider mindfulness, prayer, journaling, deep breathing, or simply unplugging regularly. - Get quality sleep
Seven to nine hours per night supports blood pressure regulation and metabolic health. - Don’t ignore risk factors
If you have diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or a family history of heart disease, proactive management is essential.
A Simple Challenge for February
This month, choose one heart-healthy habit to focus on:
- Add one extra serving of vegetables daily
- Walk 10 minutes after dinner
- Check your blood pressure at home
- Replace sugary drinks with water
Consistency matters more than perfection.
Prevention Is Personal
Heart health looks different for everyone. Genetics, age, lifestyle, and existing conditions all play a role. A personalized approach may include:
- Lifestyle counseling
- Blood pressure management
- Cholesterol treatment
- Weight management support
- Diabetes prevention or control
- Smoking cessation assistance
Even small improvements in these areas can dramatically reduce long-term risk.
Your heart works for you every second of your life. American Heart Month is a reminder to return the favor.
If it’s been more than a year since your last wellness exam, now is a great time to schedule one and review your cardiovascular risk factors.
Your future heart will thank you.
