February 2010 E-Newsletter 
February is American Heart Month 
Maintaining a healthy heart may be easier than you think. A balanced diet and exercise are two of the best ways to keep your heart in good shape. But you may find that you actually enjoy eating delicious fresh fruits and vegetables or lean proteins as well as getting out and walking more, or even taking up a new sport. Eating healthier foods and exercising more will not only lead to improved heart health, but you should feel better and more energetic overall. 
Listen to the February edition of the Georgia Wellcast to learn more about American Heart Month and what you can do to protect your heart. Click on the Wellcast icon to the right. 
Know the Signs and Symptoms of a Heart Attack 
Heart disease is the number one cause of death in the United States today. The most common type of heart disease, coronary heart disease, most often appears as a heart attack. Knowing the warning signs of a heart attack may help you or some one you know receive the necessary treatment that can save a life. The Centers for Disease Control and 
 
 Prevention (CDC) list the following warning signs: 
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Chest discomfort  most heart attacks involve a discomfort in the center of the chest that feels like pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain. The discomfort normally lasts more than a few minutes 
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Discomfort in other areas of upper body  pain or discomfort in one or both arms, back, neck, jaw or stomach may signal a heart attack 
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Shortness of breath  this may occur with or without chest pains 
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Other signs  may include breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea or lightheadedness 
The chance of developing heart disease can be decreased by taking preventive steps. The top prevention initiative is a healthy lifestyle which includes a healthy diet of lean meats and poultry, low-fat dairy products, lower salt, sugar and alcohol intake and incorporating physical activity into your daily routine. 
To learn more about heart health, log onto georgiahealthinfo.gov and click on the Healthy Living tab as well as the Medical FAQs tab to learn more.