February is American Heart Month! According to the American Heart Association, 80% of cardiac events can be prevented with education and healthy lifestyle changes. 

Below are some helpful tips to prevent Heart Disease at any age.

Regardless of age, you can benefit from a healthy diet and physical activity. Visiting your doctor can help you get on the right path to healthy by:

• Choosing a healthy eating plan with your doctor
• Developing a plan to become more physically active according to your current health
• And, learning the warning signs of a heart attack or stroke. 

Preventing Heart Disease in your 20s:

• Find a doctor and have regular wellness exams.  
• Be physically active. 
• Don't smoke and avoid secondhand smoke

Preventing Heart Disease in your 30s:

• Make heart-healthy living a family affair. 
• Know your family history.
• Tame your stress. 

Source: The American Heart Association. 

Flu season has arrived. Family Physicians Clinic & Valley Night Clinic breaks down 5 of the biggest myths about Flu virus & vaccine. 

Myth #1: The flu vaccine causes the flu.
The flu vaccine, is made up of dead flu particles, and since the virus is not living it CANNOT get you sick.
Myth #2: Getting the flu isn't that dangerous.
While most people experience flu symptoms such as: muscle aches, coughing, congestion and fever; People with weakened immune systems such as infants and the elderly are at a more serious risk of severe illness and even possible death if ignored or untreated.

Myth #3: The Flu Shot is NOT NEEDED every year.
The flu virus evolves every SINGLE year. Getting vaccinated EACH YEAR is important to be geared up with a greater immunity to combat the influenza virus, as well as colds and sore throats. It’s best NOT to take the RISK and get a yearly flu vaccination.

Myth #4: Pregnant women CANNOT get a flu shot.
The flu shot is safe and recommended for pregnant mothers. Pregnant women are more likely to acquire the flu virus and are more susceptible to hospitalizations because of the flu.  

Myth #5: Eating right and washing my hands regularly will protect me from the flu.
The flu  is an airborne virus, so although hand-washing can reduce your risk of becoming ill , it does not affect your risk of catching the flu. Eating healthy may make it easier for your immune system to fight off new infections, however it cannot prevent you from being exposed to the flu virus.

The flu vaccine is available at Family Physicians Clinic & Valley Night Clinic. Give us a call at 956-682-4515 to schedule your appointment today!For hours and clinic location, visit our Contact Us page.