Human heart is of the size of a man’s fist. Even though it is of such a small size, its performance is of the size of a mountain. World Heart Day is observed on -24th September, every year. Throughout the world, 57 million people are dying due to various causes, in a year. Out of which 17 million people are dying due to the diseases of the heart only. It is estimated by World health organisation that by 2010 more number of deaths might be due to diseases of heart and blood vessels. But most of these deaths are preventable.  Main causes for these deaths: 1. High blood pressure  2. Atherosclerosis (high cholesterol levels in the blood)  3. Diabetes (especially affecting more people in developing countries).  4. Obesity due to bad food habits and lack of exercise.  5. Tobacco smoking: Raises the bad cholesterol level (LDL) in the blood (in low fat persons) which is not good for heart.  6. Stress and strain: More common in modern speedy life, as hurry makes worry. Signs and symptoms: If any of the following symptoms are noticed, one has to consult the physician for further treatment of the case.  1. Pain in the chest and also some discomfort in the middle of the chest2. Feeling of tightness or keeping weight on the chest3. Breathing becomes difficult4. Dyspnoea and sweating all over the body.  How to protect your Heart? 1. Get rid of that bat habit of tobacco smoking.  2. Walk for ½ an hour daily (as brisk walking is the best exercise) 3. Blood pressure and Diabetes should be under control.  4. Avoid tension (stress and strain), and try to be with laughing face always (as laughter is the best medicine),  5. Take balanced diet always (as quality is main than quantity, that slogan holds good anywhere and every where).  6. Have positive thinking mentality (as hope is life).  7. Belief in GOD gives you mental peace (as sincere faith moves mountains). Hence keeping the heart in healthy condition is in your hands only. Remember this slogan always: Health is Wealth, (and every other thing is secondary to Health).  … [Read more...]