Minutes matter when you’re having a heart attack.
Heart attacks can be sudden and intense, or start slowly with mild pain or discomfort. Often those affected aren't sure what's happening and wait too long before getting help attributing to making cardiovascular disease the #1 cause of death in the United States. If you or a loved one may be experiencing symptoms of a heart attack, dial 9-1-1 immediately.
Remember, fast action and treatment can save lives.
Know the symptoms of a heart attack.
- Chest discomfort. Discomfort in the center of the chest that lasts more than a few minutes, or goes away and comes back. Uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain.
- Discomfort in the upper body. Pain or discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw or stomach.
- Shortness of breath with or without chest discomfort.
- Other signs may include cold sweat, nausea or lightheadedness.
It’s important to note that according to the American Heart Association, as with men, women’s most common heart attack symptom is chest pain or discomfort. But women are somewhat more likely than men to experience some of the other common symptoms, particularly shortness of breath, nausea/vomiting and back or jaw pain.
Are you at risk?
About half of Americans (47%) have at least one of these three risk factors for cardiovascular disease:
- High blood pressure
- High Cholesterol
- Smoking
Several other medical conditions and lifestyle choices can also put people at a higher risk for heart disease, including:
- Diabetes
- Overweight and obesity
- Poor diet
- Physical inactivity
- Excessive alcohol use
Don’t wait for an emergency to get your heart in shape, it’s easier than you think if you start early. Speak with our cardiovascular specialists today to learn more about our cardiac services, procedures, and treatments.
Schedule an appointment to speak with our cardiovascular specialists today by finding a doctor with our online Find A Physician tool.
