The Silent Disease — Beginning a Journey
The chilling Chicago wind was easy for Arthur to say good riddance to. He was heading home to Cincinnati after a successful week in the “Windy City.” As he wrapped up one journey, little did he realize another, far more personal one, was about to begin.
It was the first week of December—a busy, stressful time for Arthur. As his plane landed at the Northern Kentucky/Cincinnati Airport, he planned to stop by the mall in Florence for some Christmas shopping before heading home for a much-needed meal with his family.
At 46, Arthur considered himself healthy. He felt fine and rarely thought about his health. But that December afternoon changed everything. As he walked toward the baggage carousel, he felt an unusual sensation in his chest—and suddenly collapsed. Arthur was having a heart attack, brought on by a dangerous heart rhythm. Fortunately, bystanders nearby performed CPR, and a defibrillator was close at hand. Arthur survived. Through that experience, he began to understand the reality of the silent disease—and started taking small but steady steps to improve his health.
Cardiovascular disease and heart attacks remain the leading cause of death in America. Emergency care has improved dramatically, yet the number of annual deaths—around 600,000—hasn’t changed much in fifty years. This is a hidden disease, a silent killer. Half of those who suffer a heart attack had no idea they were at risk. The process often begins early in life and can remain undetected for years.
As a cardiologist, I assume everyone has some degree of cardiovascular disease—either hidden or active. Modern medicine does well at treating symptoms and crises, but we still have much work to do in addressing the causes.
If you experience any symptom above the waist that you can’t explain, think heart disease. Over my years as a cardiologist, I’ve seen symptoms ranging from the classic “elephant sitting on my chest” to pressure, pain, shortness of breath, heartburn, back or arm pain, jaw discomfort, nausea, extreme fatigue, palpitations, or even fainting. If you have any unexplained symptom above the waist, don’t ignore it. Get evaluated immediately. Call 911. Go to the emergency room. Arthur survived because someone acted quickly—many others never make it that far. If you remember one thing from this story, let it be this: If you have an unexplained symptom, seek help—right away.
Today, our emergency systems, defibrillators, and hospital protocols are more effective than ever. Treatments such as stents, bypass surgery, pacemakers, defibrillators, and modern medications can save lives during an acute event. But once the crisis is over, the most important question remains: What caused it?
Cardiovascular disease develops from a mix of genetics and lifestyle stressors. We can’t change our parents, but we canchange how our genes are expressed. The emerging science of epigenetics shows that lifestyle choices influence which genes turn “on” or “off.” After an event like Arthur’s, I focus on minimizing all forms of stress—whether from smoking, unhealthy food, or emotional strain. Reducing stress can lower your risk for future heart problems.
Here are four practical, inexpensive steps to start lowering your risk today.
Come to Christ
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” — Matthew 11:28
Faith is a powerful prescription. Begin by surrendering your worries and asking Christ for help. Peace of mind is one of the greatest healers.
Drink More Water
About 70–75% of Americans are at least mildly dehydrated. Water is essential for life—it thins the blood, aids digestion, lubricates joints, and supports brain function. Even mild dehydration is a stressor on the body. Make hydration a daily habit.
Move Your Body
We were designed to move, not sit. Yet modern life keeps us in chairs more than ever. Prolonged sitting slows blood flow, increases stress, and accelerates aging. Move your body every hour—stretch, stand, or walk. If possible, aim for 10,000 steps a day, but start with what you can do today.
Eat Foods That Grow
Over 90% of Americans don’t get enough fiber. A diet rich in plant-based foods—fruits, vegetables, grains, and legumes—supports heart health and reduces disease risk. Too much animal fat and protein contribute to many chronic health problems, including cardiovascular disease. Next time you eat, choose something fresh from the produce section.
These four steps may seem simple—but they can save your life. Arthur’s story is a reminder that heart disease doesn’t always announce itself. It often whispers—until it’s too late. Start your journey today. Drink water. Move. Eat plants. Find rest in Christ. Each small step brings you closer to a healthier, stronger, more peaceful life.
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