February 22: Heart Valve Disease Awareness Day – Protect Your Heart for a Healthier Future
Your heart works hard for you every single second of every day—but how often do you think about its valves? Heart valve disease (HVD) is a serious but often overlooked condition that affects millions of people worldwide, yet many don’t even know they have it until it becomes severe.
On February 22, we recognize Heart Valve Disease Awareness Day to educate, empower, and encourage proactive heart health. Early detection and prevention can save lives!
What is Heart Valve Disease?
Your heart has four valves that keep blood flowing in the right direction. When these valves don’t open or close properly due to aging, infections, or other conditions, it can lead to heart failure, stroke, blood clots, and even sudden death.
Signs & Symptoms of Heart Valve Disease
HVD can be silent for years, but symptoms can include:
✔️ Shortness of breath (especially with activity)
✔️ Fatigue or weakness
✔️ Chest pain or discomfort
✔️ Dizziness or fainting
✔️ Swollen ankles, feet, or abdomen
✔️ Irregular heartbeat or heart murmur
If you or a loved one experiences any of these symptoms, don’t ignore them—schedule a heart health check-up!
Who’s at Risk?
Heart valve disease can affect anyone, but risks increase with:
🔹 Age 65+ (1 in 10 people develop HVD)
🔹 High blood pressure, diabetes, or cholesterol issues
🔹 History of heart infections or rheumatic fever
🔹 Smoking or poor diet
🔹 Congenital heart defects
How Can You Protect Your Heart Valves?
❤️ Regular Check-Ups – Get your heart checked, especially if you have risk factors.
🥦 Eat a Heart-Healthy Diet – Less processed foods, more fruits, veggies, and lean proteins.
🏃 Stay Active – Even light exercise supports heart health.
🚭 Quit Smoking & Limit Alcohol – Protect your arteries and valves.
💊 Manage Chronic Conditions – Keep blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes in check.
The Power of Awareness & Early Action
Too many people find out about heart valve disease when it’s already too late. Raising awareness saves lives by ensuring more people get screened, diagnosed early, and treated properly.
At Joydrop Baby and Wellness, we believe in proactive care—because prevention is always better than emergency treatment. Take control of your heart health today!
Join the conversation on February 22. Share this post, encourage a loved one to get checked, and take a step toward a healthier heart! 💙💪🌻 #HeartValveDiseaseAwareness #HeartHealth #ProactiveCare
