Feeling Fine Does Not Always Mean Your Heart Is Healthy
How common heart medications help reduce risk before symptoms appear
2/12/2026
Tyler Thao, Aspirus Pharmacy Resident
During American Heart Month, Aspirus is helping patients better understand how common heart medications protect long term health, even when symptoms are not present.
Conditions like high blood pressure and high cholesterol often go unnoticed because they typically do not cause immediate symptoms. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly half of U.S. adults have high blood pressure, many without knowing it. That silent risk is why medications and regular monitoring play such an important role in prevention.
“People can feel perfectly fine and still have high blood pressure or high cholesterol,” said Tyler Thao, Aspirus Pharmacy Resident. “You would not necessarily know unless you get it checked. You may feel fine, but inside, you may not be.”
Medications for blood pressure and cholesterol help lower that hidden risk by reducing strain on the heart and blood vessels over time. In some cases, aspirin therapy may also be recommended, but it should only be used under medical guidance due to the potential for increased bleeding.
“Aspirin is not something people should start on their own,” Thao said. “Checking with a health care provider is critical.”
Because these medications are often taken long term, pharmacists play an important role in helping patients understand why they are prescribed, how to take them safely, and what to watch for along the way.
“Even though you may feel fine, you may not be,” Thao said. “Taking medications as prescribed and checking in with your doctor can truly save a life.”
Aspirus encourages anyone with questions about heart medications to talk with a pharmacist or their health care provider.
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