By JB Lester
February is the month of love and of everything heart related. As someone who has been in love and has had plenty of problems with my heart, I can tell you that the heart is the center of the human body universe.
Even though love is an emotional and mental construct, when someone is in love or suddenly out of love, the pain is felt deep in the chest and not in the brain. The heart is the pump of life, sending gallons of life sustaining blood throughout the body bringing oxygen from the lungs to tissues and organs and then returning waste filled blood back to the lungs for expulsion and then gaining more oxygen. The process goes on and on for years and years for most people. So, the heart is a mechanical wonder on the anatomical level. It is also the first thing that hurts when a loved one dies or a loving relationship ends. We feel that pain in our hearts for sure. Research shows us that people who are in loving relationships live longer. This emotional and physical connection has been well documented. It is no wonder that people have died from broken hearts. Many older adults who lose a mate then all too soon afterwards pass away themselves. Love is the strongest emotion in the psychological suitcase we carry with us throughout our lives.
On the medical side, it is very important to keep your heart healthy. Much has been written about healthy diets and getting the right amount of exercise. All very important. But equally important is the responsibility to take care of your health care. Especially men, who tend to put off check ups and then suddenly find themselves in medical emergencies. Some men take care of their car or truck more than their own personal health. As someone who has had my share of health challenges, I know how tiresome it can be going to the doctor time and time again. But even more important is the ability to catch a serious medical condition in its early stages. Especially when it comes to heart disease. There is so much medical science can do to keep your heart healthy and keep you alive. Whether it’s your arteries or your heart valves, there are minimally invasive procedures that can help you stay alive and enjoy more years with your family and friends. But you must take control of your own personal healthcare.
I have had my aortic valve replaced twice and I am still around to tell the story. As older adults, it is not uncommon to have some medical problems. So, keep those doctor appointments, get your check-ups and try to live a healthy life.
Take control. Catch it early and you can stick around to enjoy that love of life your heart provides for you and your family.