Heart health

Recognise risks and build heart-friendly habits

Common heart and circulatory diseases

Heart conditions can affect how blood moves around the body. Learning the basics helps people take symptoms seriously.

Coronary heart disease

Occurs when arteries supplying the heart become narrowed, reducing blood flow.

Heart attack

A medical emergency caused when blood supply to part of the heart is blocked.

Stroke

Happens when blood supply to part of the brain is interrupted or reduced.

Healthy food, trainers and a heart symbol

Symptoms

Warning signs to notice

  • Chest pain, tightness, pressure or heaviness
  • Pain spreading to arms, neck, jaw, back or stomach
  • Shortness of breath, sweating or feeling sick
  • Sudden weakness, facial drooping or speech problems

Risk factors

What can increase risk?

High blood pressure Smoking High cholesterol Diabetes Low physical activity Unbalanced diet Family history Stress and poor sleep

Healthy lifestyle

Simple habits that support your heart

Eat well

Choose vegetables, fruit, wholegrains, lean proteins and unsaturated fats.

Stay active

Aim for regular movement that suits your age, ability and medical advice.

Avoid smoking

Stopping smoking is one of the strongest ways to reduce heart risk.

Manage stress

Sleep, social support and relaxation can help protect long-term wellbeing.

Emergency advice

If someone may be having a heart attack or stroke, call emergency services immediately. This website is for education and does not replace medical advice.