Targets that matter

If you remember nothing else from this page, remember these numbers. Each is the threshold at which independent risk-reduction starts to flatten.

Nine high-impact practices

The cardio-friendly plate

When to seek help

1. Sudden, severe chest pain or pressureEspecially if accompanied by shortness of breath, sweating, nausea, or pain radiating to arm, jaw, neck or back. Call emergency services. Chewing aspirin 300 mg may help if you have no contraindications.
2. Sudden one-sided weakness, slurred speech, or facial droopPossible stroke — time-critical. Call emergency services immediately. Note the time symptoms started: it determines treatment options.
3. Palpitations with chest pain, dizziness or faintingCould indicate a serious arrhythmia. Seek urgent evaluation.
4. New, persistent breathlessness; ankle swelling; waking gasping at nightMay indicate heart failure. See a clinician within days, not weeks.
5. Calf pain, redness, swelling — especially after travel or immobilityPossible deep vein thrombosis. Seek evaluation; do not massage the leg.