Listen to Your Heart: Why Houston Methodist Cardiologists Say Small Changes Save Lives
As Houstonians make Valentine’s Day dinner plans and pick out heart-shaped treats, Houston Methodist cardiologists are urging the community to look beyond the romance and take a closer look at their real heart health.
February is not only about love—it’s also American Heart Month, a nationwide observance dedicated to raising awareness about heart disease, which remains the leading cause of death in the United States. According to the American Heart Association, one in five deaths is linked to heart disease, and every 40 seconds, someone dies from a heart-related condition.
While flowers and chocolates may be good for the soul, doctors warn that many everyday habits—especially poor diet and inactivity—can quietly put people at risk.
“Cheeseburgers and fries may taste like love at first bite, but frequent indulgence can break your heart—literally,” notes Houston Methodist in a recent public health reminder.
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Understanding the Real Risk Behind Heart Disease
Heart disease isn’t a single condition—it’s a range of issues affecting how the heart functions. These include:
- Coronary artery disease (narrowed blood vessels)
- Arrhythmias (abnormal heart rhythms)
- Heart failure
- Valve disorders
- Cardiomyopathy (weakened heart muscle)
- Congenital heart defects
- Pericardial disease (inflammation or stiffness of the heart’s outer lining)
Symptoms can be easy to dismiss. Chest pain, shortness of breath, fatigue, swelling in the legs, and palpitations are among the most common. For women, signs may be more subtle, such as jaw, neck, back, or stomach pain, or even nausea and sleep disturbances.
Who’s at Risk—and How to Take Action
Those with high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, obesity, or a family history of heart disease are at higher risk. But lifestyle plays a big role, too. Smoking, poor diet, and lack of exercise are all contributors. Shockingly, nearly half of U.S. adults have high blood pressure, and only 1 in 4 have it under control.
But here’s the good news: heart disease is often preventable.
Doctors recommend simple steps to reduce your risk:
- Choose heart-healthy foods
- Get regular physical activity
- Quit smoking or vaping
- Monitor and manage blood pressure and cholesterol
- Attend routine checkups, even if you feel fine
“Heart disease is the leading cause of death for both men and women, but early screening and prevention can save lives—listen to your heart, know the signs and take action for your health,” said Dr. Danielle D. Tientcheu, a cardiologist at Houston Methodist DeBakey Cardiology Associates at Willowbrook.
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Love Yourself - Schedule a Screening
In addition to raising awareness this month, Houston Methodist is offering resources and access to expert care across the Greater Houston area—including video visits and in-person appointments at locations like the Willowbrook campus. Residents concerned about their risk factors are encouraged to speak with a cardiologist.
As the holiday centered on love approaches, it’s the perfect time to check in on the most important relationship of all—the one you have with your own health.
To schedule a screening or learn more about heart disease prevention, visit HoustonMethodist.org or call 281-619-5658.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
