February is National Heart Awareness Month, a time when members of various organizations wear red and hold events to highlight the problems of heart disease.

American Heart Association, Lehigh Valley, is getting fired up for National Heart Awareness month by hosting a Lehigh Valley Ignite Heart Ball 6 p.m. Feb. 28 at the Renaissance hotel, Allentown.

Proceeds from the ball will benefit works of the American Heart Association.

Java Joint, Trexlertown, is making fruit and veggie shakes to celebrate the month.

Evonne's Sandwich Shop, Catasauqua, is preparing heart healthy sandwiches for its customers to purchase.

Heart disease is the leading cause of death for men and women in the United States.

According to the American Heart Association, every year, one in four deaths is caused by heart disease.

Heart disease affects men and women differently.

Years ago, when my father suffered a heart attack, he complained of pain in his left arm and tightness in his chest.

In 2010, when my mother had a heart attack, she had no symptoms.

She was diagnosed in the emergency room with having what doctors termed a silent heart attack.

The Centers for Disease Control say symptoms of a heart attack may include chest pain or discomfort, upper back pain, indigestion, heartburn, nausea or vomiting, extreme fatigue, upper body discomfort or shortness of breath.

Sometimes heart disease may be silent and not diagnosed until a woman experiences symptoms of a heart attack, heart failure, an arrhythmia or stroke, the CDC states.

By maintaining a healthy weight, not smoking, getting regular exercise, reducing stress, eating a healthy diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables and whole grains, heart disease can be prevented.

Control of high blood pressure, blood glucose and cholesterol levels and eating foods low in fats and sodium are also important.

The top five super foods for a healthy heart, says WebMD, are blueberries, salmon, soy protein, oatmeal and spinach.

To help prevent or eliminate the serious risk of heart disease, we all need to focus on caring for our cardiovascular systems every day, not just in February, to ensure a healthy and long life.

Susan Bryant

editorial assistant

Parkland Press

Northwestern Press