WORLD HEART DAY is observed annually on the 29th of September that took place back in 2000 across the world and it grows stronger and stronger- year after year. This is the world’s common platform that generates awareness of cardiovascular disease and highlights the need to broaden the health focus to incorporate the preventive measures to reduce mortality and morbidity.

But before going any further, I want everyone to know that the heart is really an amazing organ in the cardiovascular system that pumps oxygen and nutrient-rich blood throughout the body. When it beats, it pumps blood through a system of blood vessels to SUSTAIN LIFE. And just imagine how the heart powers the whole body- it lets everyone love, laugh and live a life to the fullest. When a heart stop doing its work, the entire system may fail. Which is why it is very important to be aware of the clear warning signs of heart disease. Early treatment can save life.

In a rapidly evolving world, healthy living and well-being are increasingly becoming of many conversations. In this year of unprecedented times of COVID-19 pandemic, things horrify us even more and make our hearts’ palpitation worse. By the beginning of 2020, we heard about Novel Coronavirus and today is the chance to bring people together in the battle to tackle the world’s biggest killer and urge more people to create awareness and preventive control measures to reduce the burden of cardiovascular disease and lower the worldwide disease burden.  As COVID-19 keeps knocking everyone’s door, and while it’s still unknown for the world what will happen in the future, taking care of our hearts is important. Today is the perfect time to learn more about the heart, how to take care of it and how to use it to fight COVID-19.

On this occasion of  World Heart Day, I would like to share my personal story of abnormal heartbeat caused by a short-circuit in the ventricles. I am a Cardiology patient; always have shortness of breath, a rapid pulse rate, heart palpitations- a racing, uncomfortable or a sensation of “flopping” in the chest, and gripping with incredible chest pain. Skipping a beat or two for prolonged period, or frequently can signal a condition called “Atrial Fibrillation” (an irregular, often rapid heart rate that commonly occurs when two chambers of the heart experience chaotic electrical signals.) that can lead to blood clots , stroke, heart failure and other heart related complications. These potential signs and warning of heart disease shouldn’t be dismissed. And the prevention tips straight from my Cardiologist include:

1. Maintain a healthy diet-more fruits, vegetables and lean meats.
2. Good quality or right amount of sleep. 
3. Exercise regularly. It is one of the most effective ways to ensure healthy arteries.
4. Blood Pressure should be checked regularly by a Doctor.
5. Avoid a high level of stress.
6. Maintain a weight that works for my body.
7. Blood sugar should be tested and under control.
8. Avoid smoking.

You are not too young to learn about heart disease risks and to start preventing them and it is never too late to look after your heart, to keep it healthy all the time and help others to do the same because every heartbeat matters.

Happy World Heart Day everyone!