Heart Health Hints

Did you know that AAA Prescription Savings is free for AAA members, and that your entire family, including pets, is covered? AAA members can save up to 75 percent off prescriptions, including many pet medications. Check out these helpful heart health hints from AAA Prescription Savings and CVS Health.

Cardiovascular disease causes 1 in 4 deaths in the U.S., but many of us don’t know our risk. February is Heart Month, so it’s a great time to learn more about what you can do to improve your heart health and avoid serious complications like a heart attack or stroke.

High blood pressure (hypertension) is referred to as the “silent killer” because nearly half of all American adults have it, but many don’t know it. Diet and exercise can help you manage your blood pressure, but your doctor may also prescribe medication.

People with high cholesterol have twice the risk of heart disease compared to those who don’t. Lower cholesterol levels mean dangerous plaque is less likely to build up your blood vessels. You can help control your cholesterol with a healthy diet and exercise, but your doctor may also prescribe medication.

Diabetes is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease. If you have diabetes, be sure to track your blood glucose levels, take your medications as prescribed, and make any lifestyle changes your doctor recommends. If you’ve been diagnosed with pre-diabetes, talk to your doctor about how you can keep it from progressing to Type 2 diabetes.

If your doctor prescribes medication, it’s important to take it exactly as prescribed. The good news is that your AAA membership gives you the opportunity to save money on many commonly prescribed medications.

While medications can be effective at improving heart health, your lifestyle choices play a key role. Here are some things you can do to live a healthier life.

Only about 20 percent of American adults get enough exercise. It’s recommended that you get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity, 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity, or an equivalent mix of the two each week.

A healthy diet focuses on fruits and vegetables, low-fat dairy and lean fish and poultry, while limiting salt, red meat and sugar.

Smoking puts you at higher risk for heart disease and complications like heart attack or stroke. Luckily, there are abundant resources to help you quit. Counseling or coaching, over-the-counter nicotine replacement products and prescription medications are all methods to make quitting easier.

Talk to your doctor about your risk for cardiovascular disease and how you can improve your heart health. For more information about AAA Prescription Savings, visit AAA.com/Prescriptions.