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February is American Heart Month and it shares its message, "Heart health is in everyone's best interest," which urges individuals to do something good for their heart. May it be adopting a healthy diet, committing to a regulare exercise regimen or scheduling an appointment with a physician to make sure the heart is in good shape.

Cardiovascular disease is the nation's number 1 threat. About 610,000 Americans die from heart disease each year based on the reports from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

It has been found to be the leading cause of death in St. Clair and Sanilac counties. Heart diseases, such as stroke, heart attack and chest pain has also caused 34% of deaths in Wisconsin.  In 2012, there were 175 deaths reported due to heart disease in Eau Claire County, Wisconsin.

Symptoms for cardiovascular diseases are a combination of chest pain or discomfort, pain in one or both arms, shortness of breath, pain in neck, back, stomach, jaw, nausea, vomiting, lightheadedness, breaking out in a cold sweat, extreme fatigue, and indigestion or heartburn. If you or know anyone with these symptoms please call 911 immediately.

The Times Herald reported that the McLaren Port Huron is the only hospital in St. Clair County that offers open-heart surgery. They have been designated by the Joint Commission as top performer on key quality measures in heart attack, heart failure, pneumonia and surgical care. Joint Commission is an independent non-profit organization that certifies nearly 21,000 health care providers and programs in the US.

McLaren Port Huron's Cardiovascular Services are known for top quality care. Cardiology Associates of Port Huron and the Center for Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery comprise 11 of the finest heart doctors and surgeons around.

According to WEAU, Eau Claire City-County Health Department is also proudly promoting American Heart Month this February. They are encouraging the community to take time to learn more about how to keep their heart healthy. Knowing what factors can contribute to heart disease such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, lack of exercise, and diet can help keep a healthy heart.