Even if heart attacks are not part of your family history it is important to know how to prevent a heart attack. There are different ways that this can be done including:

. Eat a low fat diet that is rich in vegetables and fruits. Eat lean meats like pork, chicken, and fish.

. Keep your salt intake to a minimum.

. Lose weight or keep your weight at the proper level.

. Engage in aerobic exercise for your heart.

. Take medications that your physician has prescribed for heart related conditions.

. Keep your blood pressure under control.

. Try to keep a low stress level in your life.

. If you have diabetes, try to keep your levels under control by medication, diet, and exercise.

. Do not smoke or use other tobacco products.

. Get regular physicals and blood work to make sure you are maintaining your health.

. Let your doctor know if there is a history of heart attacks in your family.

There are certain prescriptions that your doctor may give you in order to lower your risk of having a heart attack. Medications that lower cholesterol, daily aspirin therapy, beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors, and statins can all be helpful in keeping your risk of heart attacks lower.

There are some problems that can arise from taking some of the medications and if you should experience any of them it is important to tell your doctor immediately. Aspirin can cause stomach upset or bleeding ulcers. It's also important, if you are having surgery, that you let your surgeon know that you are on daily aspirin therapy as this can cause excessive bleeding due to thinning of the blood.

It's a good idea for everyone to learn CPR in case it's ever needed. Administering CPR immediately can mean the difference between life and death for someone who is experiencing a heart attack. Many doctors recommend taking an aspirin at the first sign that you may be having a heart attack. Even if you are unsure, it's important to get to the hospital quickly if you are experiencing any of the symptoms of a heart attack.