Health is the most valuable treasure for everyone. Among the vital organs that keep us alive, the heart plays one of the most essential roles — it is something that must never be taken lightly. The heart works non-stop, from the moment we are born until the day we die, just like a machine that never rests. However, if we neglect this “machine,” it can suddenly stop working, which is why everyone should pay careful attention to heart health.

Why We Should Care About Heart Disease

Heart disease is one of the most dangerous illnesses because it can strike at any time and threaten life itself. Conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, and obesity increase the risk of developing heart disease. Some people ignore warning signs such as chest pain, fatigue, or shortness of breath. When such symptoms appear, do not assume “it will go away after some rest.” Instead, seek medical attention immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment can save your life.

Prevention: How to Keep Your Heart Healthy

Prevention is the best way to protect against heart disease. Simple changes in daily habits can go a long way toward improving heart health.

Things To Do:

• Exercise regularly: Walk, jog, or do any preferred physical activity for at least 30 minutes a day.
• Eat a balanced diet: Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables. Cut down on fried, fatty, and sugary foods.
• Maintain a healthy weight: Keep your body weight within a normal range, as being overweight puts extra stress on the heart.
• Manage stress: Practice yoga, meditation, or other relaxation methods to reduce mental stress.

Things To Avoid:

• Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol: Smoking and heavy drinking damage blood vessels and directly increase the risk of heart disease.
• Reduce salt intake: Eating too much salt can lead to high blood pressure, a major cause of heart disease.
• Avoid sleep deprivation: Get 7–8 hours of sleep per night for a healthy heart and body.

Caring for Heart Patients

If a family member or someone around you has heart disease, it’s important to show understanding, compassion, and warm support. Encourage them emotionally, remind them to take their medications on time, and help prepare heart-healthy meals. Support from loved ones and the surrounding community plays a major role in helping patients cope and recover.

Conclusion

Taking care of heart health shouldn’t start only when you’re older — it should begin from a young age. By living a healthy lifestyle and getting regular check-ups, heart disease can be prevented.

A recent tragic event also serves as a reminder: on the night of October 25, at the “Idiots Farewell” concert held at Eastern Yangon Event Park in Thingangyun Township, Yangon, the singer Adino collapsed and passed away on stage due to heart disease. This heartbreaking incident reminds us all that heart disease is not to be taken lightly.

This health awareness article is presented by MY Yangon Guide to promote public understanding of heart disease.

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