Heart disease is the leading cause of death for men in the United States. Understanding the signs and symptoms and getting regular screenings can mean the difference between life and death.
Heart Disease Explained
Heart disease refers to several types of heart conditions. The most common in men are:
coronary artery disease caused by plaque in the artery walls
arrhythmia caused by the heart beating too slowly, too fast or irregularly
heart failure, which occurs when the heart is too weak to pump enough blood to other organs
Heart disease boosts your risk for heart attacks and sudden cardiac arrest.
Symptoms of Heart Attacks
Some heart attacks may happen suddenly, with intense pain, while others start slowly with only mild pain or discomfort. It’s important to know these major symptoms of a heart attack:
pain or discomfort in the jaw, neck, stomach or back
feeling weak, dizzy, light-headed or faint
chest pain or discomfort
pain or discomfort in arms or shoulder
shortness of breath
unusual or unexplained fatigue
If you think you’re having a heart attack, call 911 right away.
You should also be aware of what heart disease may feel like. In addition to heart attack symptoms, you may also experience:
fluttering in your chest, called palpitations or arrhythmia
fatigue
swelling of your feet and legs, abdomen or neck veins
Even if you’re not experiencing symptoms, you may still be at risk for heart disease. This is why it’s so important to keep up with your preventive care and regular screenings.
How Can You Lower Your Risk?
You can’t control risk factors like your family history or age, but with the right lifestyle changes, you can help lower your heart attack risk:
Maintain a healthy weight. Need to lose a few pounds? Even a 10-pound weight loss can lower blood pressure and reduce strain on your heart.
Keep your blood pressure and cholesterol in a healthy range. Talk to your provider about your numbers and ask what you can do to lower them.
Eat a healthy, well-balanced diet. Foods like fresh fruits and vegetables, balanced with whole grains, low-fat dairy, skinless chicken and fish may help prevent clogged arteries and blood vessels.
Exercise regularly. Aim for at least 150 minutes of aerobic activity, like walking or cycling, weekly.
Don’t smoke or use tobacco and limit alcohol. They can raise your blood pressure and risk for heart disease.
Practice self-care to manage stress.
Preventive care is 100% covered through your TRS-ActiveCare and TRS-Care Standard plans.
TRS-ActiveCare participants can use Provider Finder® to search for a provider. Call a Personal Health Guide (PHG) available 24/7 at 1-866-355-5999 or chat through the BCBSTX App for help.
TRS-Care Standard participants can search for a provider using Provider Finder. Call a PHG available 24/7 at 1-866-355-5999 or chat through the BCBSTX App for help.
Well onTarget® Wellness Coaching
Your TRS-ActiveCare and TRS-Care Standard plans offer Well onTarget® Wellness Coaching from credentialed professionals with a variety of programs that will improve your heart health including helping to manage weight, stress, blood pressure and cholesterol. You can also get help with eating better and quitting tobacco.
Fitness Program
Not sure where to start when it comes to exercise? TRS-ActiveCare and TRS-Care Standard offer a discounted Fitness Program that gives you access to a nationwide network of fitness locations. There’s also a virtual fitness program so you can stay active at home.
Walk with a Doc
Walk with a Doc inspires communities through movement and conversation with physician-led walking groups. With an aim to make hope and well-being accessible to all, Walk with a Doc offers a simple, sustainable solution for exercise, health education and social connection. Health care providers ditch their white coats for a ball cap and sneakers. There’s laughter, education and communication on a level that is altering the healthcare landscape. Find a walk near you or learn more.
SilverSneakers®
SilverSneakers is more than a fitness program. It’s an opportunity to improve your health, gain confidence and connect with your community. Plus, it’s included at no additional cost in your TRS-Care Medicare Advantage plan. Get started today.
Let's Move by UnitedHealthcare
Let's Move by UnitedHealthcare is here to help keep your mind, body and social life active – at no additional cost to you. With simple resources, tools, events and personalized support, Let’s Move helps you explore ways to eat well, stay connected and be financially, physically and mentally fit. To explore, visit letsmovebyuhc.com through your member website.
You can also participate in live, virtual events to learn how to cook healthy meals, be physically active, and explore other wellness topics by visiting the events page.