Answer: The most common symptoms of heart disease vary depending on the specific condition, but some general symptoms to look out for include:

• Chest pain or discomfort (angina): Often described as pressure, tightness, or squeezing in the chest, which may also radiate to the shoulders, neck, jaw, or arms.

• Shortness of breath: Especially during physical activity or while lying down.

• Fatigue: Feeling unusually tired or exhausted, even after minimal exertion.

• Swelling in the legs, ankles, or feet (edema): Caused by fluid buildup when the heart isn't pumping effectively.

• Irregular heartbeat or palpitations: Feeling like your heart is racing, fluttering, or skipping beats.

If you experience these symptoms, especially if they occur suddenly or are severe, seek medical attention immediately, as they could indicate a heart attack or other serious condition.

Answer: To lower your risk of heart disease, it's essential to adopt heart-healthy lifestyle habits:

• Eat a heart-healthy diet: Focus on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Limit your intake of processed foods, added sugars, and sodium.

• Exercise regularly: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity (such as brisk walking) per week, along with strength training exercises on two or more days.

• Quit smoking: Smoking is a major risk factor for heart disease. Seek support to help you quit if needed.

• Manage stress: Chronic stress can negatively affect your heart. Practice stress-relief techniques like mindfulness, deep breathing, or yoga.

• Maintain a healthy weight: Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight can help control blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels.

• Monitor your health: Regular health screenings, including blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar tests, can detect risk factors early.

Answer: Supplements can provide essential nutrients that support cardiovascular function and reduce heart disease risk. Some of the most beneficial supplements for heart health include:

• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Reduce triglycerides, lower inflammation, and decrease the risk of arrhythmias.

• Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10): Helps improve heart muscle function, especially in people with heart failure or those taking statins.

• Magnesium: Supports normal heart rhythm, lowers blood pressure, and helps prevent arrhythmias.

• Plant Sterols and Stanols: Help reduce cholesterol levels by blocking its absorption in the digestive tract.

• Fiber (Psyllium Husk): Helps regulate cholesterol and blood sugar levels, improving overall heart health. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new supplements, especially if you are taking medications or have pre-existing conditions.

Answer: The recommended frequency for cholesterol and blood pressure checks varies depending on your health status and risk factors:

• Cholesterol:

  • If you are over 20 and do not have risk factors for heart disease, it is recommended to have your cholesterol checked every four to six years.

  • If you have risk factors like high blood pressure, diabetes, or a family history of heart disease, you may need to check your cholesterol more frequently, as advised by your healthcare provider.

• Blood pressure:

  • Adults with normal blood pressure (less than 120/80 mmHg) should have their blood pressure checked at least every two years.

  • If you have elevated blood pressure or hypertension, more frequent monitoring is necessary, as your doctor recommends.

Answer: While certain damage from heart disease cannot be fully reversed, lifestyle changes can significantly improve heart health, slow the progression of heart disease, and, in some cases, partially reverse damage by improving the condition of the arteries.

• Quitting smoking, improving diet, and engaging in regular exercise can reduce plaque buildup, lower cholesterol levels, and help restore blood flow to the heart.

• Medications combined with lifestyle changes can also help manage symptoms and reduce the risk of heart attacks or strokes.

Adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle is the most effective way to manage heart disease and prevent further damage.