In the United States, heart disease is the number one killer of men and women over the age of 45. In fact, every 34 seconds some form of heart disease claims a life. There is no cure for heart disease, but there are preventive measures that you can take to keep your heart healthy. By knowing all you can about your family's health history, maintaining the proper diet, exercising and lowering your stress, you can make sure your heart is as healthy as it can be. It just might save your life or the life of a loved one.

Don't Risk It:

You're at a greater risk for developing heart disease if there is a history of the disease in your family. For this reason, it's important to find out about your family's health history. Then, share your findings with other members of your family and with your doctor at your next check-up.

Even if you have heart disease, there are many steps you can take to improve the health of your heart. The American Heart Association provides the following guidelines:

• If you smoke - stop! Smokers are four times as likely to experience heart disease.
• Treat high blood pressure if you have it.
• Follow a diet low in fat, cholesterol and salt and full of fresh fruits and vegetables.
• Exercise.
• See your doctor for regular check-ups.
• If you have diabetes, control your blood sugar.

By following these guidelines, you'll not only help to keep your heart healthy, but you'll feel your best. You can also talk to your doctor about the lifestyle changes you should make.

Heart Attacks: The Facts

A heart attack occurs when the blood flow to a part of the heart is blocked. Coronary arteries, which supply the heart with blood, can slowly become clogged from a buildup of fat and cholesterol called plaque. Blood that tries to flow through these clogged arteries can form a clot. If this clot cuts off the blood flow completely, the part of the heart muscle supplied by that artery begins to die due to a lack of oxygen.

Back on Track:

If you do suffer a heart attack, the recovery process will probably require you to make lifestyle changes. Though it will be difficult, these changes will be necessary to avoid having another heart attack. You'll have to watch your diet and exercise. Your doctor will discuss with you how soon you can go back to work, drive a car, and what to do if you have chest discomfort.

Stress Less:

Stress is a factor in heart disease, and a stressful lifestyle can cause even further health problems. While life will always have stressful factors, it is important to manage your stress.

Stress is your body's response to changing situations. The keys are finding a way to let go of tension and learning how to cope with the stressful events that will present themselves. The American Heart Association recommends the following ways to cope with stress:

• Exercise regularly. Do what you enjoy - walk, swim, ride a bike or jog to get your muscles going. Letting go of the tension in your body will help you feel a lot better.
• Take 15 to 20 minutes a day to sit quietly, breathe deeply, and think of a peaceful picture.
• Try to learn to accept things you can't change. You don't have to solve all of life's problems.
• Talk out your troubles and look for the good instead of the bad in situations.
• Limit caffeine (coffee, tea and soft drinks). Also, limit alcohol intake and don't smoke.

By avoiding situations that might upset you, giving yourself enough time to get things done, and keeping communication lines open with family, friends and co-workers, you can live a more relaxed life.