Jonesboro, AR – JonesboroRightNow.com – February isn’t just about roses and chocolates, it’s also American Heart Month, making it the perfect time to focus on the most important muscle in your body: your heart.
Heart disease remains one of the leading causes of death in the United States, but the good news is that many risk factors can be managed with the right support, education, and care.
Your local Super V Drugs pharmacy team is here to help with expert guidance, blood pressure screenings, and answers to your medication questions.
Q: What are the most important facts people should know about heart health?
- Nearly half of adults in the U.S. have high blood pressure, and many don’t even know it.
- High cholesterol typically has no symptoms, but significantly increases your risk of heart attack and stroke.
- Small lifestyle changes – like improving your diet, increasing physical activity, quitting smoking, and managing stress – can dramatically lower your risk.
- Taking medications exactly as prescribed is one of the most important steps in preventing complications.
The key takeaway: knowing your numbers (blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar, and weight) gives you the power to take control and make adjustments to your lifestyle to improve your health.
Q: How can a pharmacist help reduce my risk?
Pharmacists are one of the most accessible healthcare providers in local communities, and our pharmacists at Super V Drugs are here to support you in several important ways.
Medication Management & Counseling: If you’re taking medication for high blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes, or other heart-related conditions, taking it exactly as prescribed is critical. Missing doses or stopping medications too soon can increase your risk of complications.
The pharmacists at Super V Drugs are available to answer questions about side effects, drug interactions, and proper timing of your medications. They can also help you set up automatic monthly refills and/or medication packaging, making it easier to stay on track.
When it comes to heart health, consistency is key, and your pharmacy team is an essential partner in that journey
Blood Pressure Monitoring: High blood pressure often has no obvious symptoms, yet it significantly increases the risk of heart disease and stroke. That’s why knowing your numbers is so important. According to the American Heart Association, normal blood pressure is considered to be less than 120 over 80 mmHg.
Super V Drugs pharmacists can provide convenient blood pressure screenings and help you understand what those numbers mean. If your readings are elevated, they can recommend next steps, whether that’s lifestyle changes or a conversation with your healthcare provider. Regular monitoring is one of the easiest and most powerful ways to protect your heart.
Heart-Healthy Habits & Lifestyle Guidance: Small daily choices can make a big difference over time. Eating a balanced diet low in sodium and saturated fats, staying physically active, managing stress, and getting enough sleep all support a healthy heart.
Not sure where to begin? Super V Drugs pharmacists can offer guidance on heart-healthy vitamins and supplements, smoking cessation products, and tools like home blood pressure monitors. They’re always ready to point you toward practical, manageable steps that fit your lifestyle.
Smoking Cessation Support: According to the American Heart Association, middle-aged smokers (40 – 59 years old) have a 10% higher risk of developing heart disease than non-smokers.
Quitting smoking is one of the fastest ways to improve heart health. Our pharmacists at Super V Drugs can provide counseling and tools to help you succeed.
Q: What’s one simple step I can take today?
Start by having a conversation. Whether it’s checking your blood pressure, reviewing your medications, or asking about lifestyle changes, even a five-minute discussion can set you on the right path.
Preventive care is one of the strongest defenses against heart disease. Regular check-ins, screenings, and medication reviews can catch potential issues early when they’re most treatable. Having a trusted pharmacist who knows your medication history adds an extra layer of safety and support.
This Heart Health Month, take charge of your heart. Visit Super V Drugs and ask to speak with a pharmacist, because expert heart care might be closer than you think.
References & Resources for More Information
For additional, reliable information on heart health, visit:
- American Heart Association (AHA) – Heart disease prevention, blood pressure information, and heart-healthy lifestyle tips.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) – Heart disease facts, risk factors, and prevention strategies.
- National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) – Resources on high blood pressure, cholesterol, and heart-healthy living.
- Million Hearts® Initiative – Tools and information to prevent heart attacks and strokes.