Sorry, you need to enable JavaScript to visit this website.

livingwell

Living Well DC
Living Well DC
Let’s Go Go DC Take charge of your health with tips and support from DC Health. Visit Go Go DC!

Heart Disease and Stroke Prevention and Care

Man clutching chest

  • Definition: Heart disease happens when the heart’s blood vessels get clogged, making it harder for the heart to pump blood. A stroke happens when blood flow to the brain is blocked. Both can be life-threatening.   

  1.  

  • Tips:

    • How Can Heart Disease and Stroke Be Prevented?
      • Eat heart-healthy foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
      • Exercise regularly—aim for 30 minutes most days
      • Quit smoking and avoid secondhand smoke
      • Manage stress and get enough sleep
      • Check your blood pressure and cholesterol regularly
    • Recognize the warning signs of heart attack and stroke
      • Signs of a heart attack include chest pain, shortness of breath, and pain in the arms or jaw.
      • Signs of a stroke include face drooping, arm weakness, and trouble speaking.
      • If you notice these signs, call 911 immediately.
    • Can Heart Disease and Stroke Be Managed or Treated?
      • Take prescribed medications for blood pressure, cholesterol, or heart conditions
      • Follow a heart-healthy diet and stay active
      • Work with a doctor to manage risk factors like diabetes
      • Attend cardiac rehab programs if you’ve had a heart attack or stroke

  • Resources:

    • LivingWell DC: Visit Living Well Go Go DC for tools to help you eat healthy, exercise, get healthy sleep, go to the doctor, and quit smoking.
    • DC Quit Now offers no-cost programs, medications, and tips from former DC smokers that can help you stay tobacco-free. Call 1-800-QUIT-NOW or visit DC Quit Now.
    • LinkUDMV: Find free and low-cost blood pressure self-monitoring programs on LinkU by searching for "blood pressure".
    • Learn How to Build Healthy Habits: DC SNAP-Ed offers free nutrition and physical activity classes. To find a class email [email protected].
    • DPR: Find activities and programs for any fitness level at the DC Department of Parks and Recreation DPR Programs.
    • Stress Management: Get stress management tips from the American Heart Association. 
    • CDC Heart Disease Facts
    • Million Hearts: For hospitals, health care providers, community organizations and pharmacies