February is Heart Month

The heart powers our daily lives and connects us. “Health Care with a Heart” is more than Central Florida Health Care’s slogan—it reflects our commitment, standard, and purpose to putting patients’ hearts and health first.

Heart disease remains a significant health concern in the U.S. and is the greatest health threat to women. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1 in 5 heart attacks is silent. Damage is done, but unfortunately, the person is not aware.

This is why Central Florida Health Care Chief Clinical Informatics Officer, Dr. Andrew Hein DO, MBA, says both men and women need to take charge of their health and know more about heart disease. High blood pressure, high blood cholesterol, and smoking are key risk factors for heart disease. Diabetes, being overweight, eating an unhealthy diet, no physical activity, and excessive alcohol use also put people at a higher risk.

Dr. Hein says heart disease can present in several ways, and the symptoms often depend on the specific condition. Common warning signs include chest pain or discomfort (angina), shortness of breath, and pain that may radiate to the neck, jaw, throat, upper belly, or back. Some people may also experience numbness, weakness, or coldness in their legs or arms if circulation is reduced. These symptoms are particularly associated with coronary artery disease, where plaque buildup restricts blood flow to the heart.

Prevention begins with simple, sustainable habits. Eating a heart‑healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can lower cholesterol and blood pressure, while limiting saturated fats, trans fats, sodium, and added sugars reduces your overall risk. Regular physical activity, about 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week, helps maintain a healthy weight and supports cardiovascular function. Avoiding smoking, moderating alcohol intake, and managing underlying conditions such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes are also essential parts of prevention.

Routine checkups help monitor these risk factors and allow for early intervention when needed. Central Florida Health Care is ready to support all your healthcare needs. Take charge of your heart health—call 866.234.8534 today to schedule your appointment.