TCRH Highlights Key Heart‑Health Habits During National Heart Month

As Americans observe National Heart Month, Twin County Regional Healthcare is urging community members to take proactive steps to protect their heart health. With heart disease remaining the leading cause of death in the United States, cardiologist Dr. Alan Hurty, MD, is encouraging individuals to understand their risks and adopt simple lifestyle habits that strengthen the heart and reduce the likelihood of cardiovascular disease.

“The heart is an extraordinary muscle that God created,” said Dr. Hurty. “It pumps more than 2,000 gallons of blood every day through a network of 60,000 miles of vessels. With so much depending on it, it’s critical that we take care of this vital organ.”

According to the American Heart Association, up to 80% of heart disease cases are preventable through early detection and healthy lifestyle changes. During Heart Month, Dr. Hurty recommends four key steps that every individual can take to lower their risk.

Know Your Numbers

Maintaining healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels is essential. High blood pressure and elevated LDL (“bad”) cholesterol can damage arteries and increase the risk of heart disease. Regular screenings help individuals catch problems early.

Choose Heart‑Healthy Habits

A nutritious diet—rich in whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins—helps reduce blood pressure and cholesterol. Dr. Hurty recommends the Mediterranean Diet. Limiting salt, sugar, alcohol, and fatty foods also supports long‑term heart health. Dr. Hurty emphasizes the importance of quitting smoking; free resources are available at 1‑800‑QUIT‑NOW.

Stay Active

At least 150 minutes of cardio exercise each week helps strengthen the heart. Activities can include brisk walking, jogging, cycling, sports, or any routine that raises the heart rate.

Recognize Heart Attack Symptoms

Seek emergency care immediately if experiencing chest pain, discomfort in the arm or neck, shortness of breath, dizziness, or—especially for women—sudden nausea or unusual fatigue.

Individuals wishing to speak with a provider about their heart health can contact Twin County Regional Healthcare at (276) 236-8181or visit TCRH.ORG to schedule an appointment. In emergencies, call 9‑1‑1.

About Twin County Regional Healthcare

Twin County Regional Hospital (TCRH) is the flagship of the Twin County Regional Healthcare delivery system, a Duke LifePoint Healthcare affiliate, centered on the mission “Making Communities Healthier®.  The hospital is in Galax, Virginia, the center of the Twin Counties of Grayson and Carroll Counties in Southwest Virginia.  Twin County Regional Hospital has been the anchor and the region’s leader of healthcare for over 50 years offering services such as acute care, inpatient behavioral health, cardiac rehab/cardio direct, cardiology, cardiopulmonary services, chronic disease management, diagnostic imaging, emergency services, intensive care, lab/lab direct, occupational health, orthopedics, rehabilitation services, stroke center, surgical services, neurology, urology, women’s health and birthing center and many other services. For additional information, please call 276.236.8181 or visit www.TCRH.org or find TCRH on Facebook.

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