The origins of this holiday spring from a need for the public to pay attention to cardiovascular disease. Why? According to the American Heart Association (AHA), this type of condition is the number one cause of deaths in the United States.

Part of the reason why people die from it is two-fold. Poor lifestyle and ignorance about the warning signs associated with heart attacks and strokes. Enlightening the general public about these subjects is the main goal of American Heart Month.

Below is the general information that medical providers and agencies want the public to know about their heart and health.

A Heart Healthy Life Style
Regular exercise 3 to 4 times a week for 30 minutes
A diet heavy on vegetables and fruit
Lifestyles of balance to minimize stress

Signs of a Heart Attack
Cold Sweat
Nausea or lightheadedness
Chest tightness or pain
Shortness of Breath
Discomfort in your shoulders/arms/back/jaw or stomach

Signs of a Stroke
Headaches (ones that won't go away)
Loss of coordination or balance
Dizziness and blurred vision
Disorientation (trouble understanding/speaking)
Numbness and/or weakness of face/arm/leg

A person who chooses to live a heart healthy lifestyle will reduce their chances of having cardiovascular disease. Also, anyone who experiences the symptoms listed for a heart attack or stroke should call 9-1-1 as soon as possible. It is a matter of life or death.

The great news is that AHA now reports that since 1999, coronary heart disease deaths are down by 25.8%. This means AHA has met their 2010 goal earlier. It also means the word about the seriousness of this condition is starting to get to people and they are literally taking it to heart.

So how can you celebrate American Heart Month? You can do it in a variety of ways. Below are a few recommendations ranging from the simplistic to the complex. Pick two to do in the month of February.

Article courtesy of www.associatedcontent.com