Recognizing Heart Disease

Last week, we talked about many behaviors that positively impact heart health. A healthy lifestyle can greatly improve your heart health & lower your risk of heart conditions. This American Heart Association infographic is a great review.

However, as you can see, there are a few risk factors you can't control. Heart conditions are also a leading cause of illness & death in Granville & Vance counties (short version:  2014 SOTCH; more detailed:  2012 CHA page 100). Heart disease is a really broad term so we can't elaborate here... But, it is important to recognize immediately dangerous signs & symptoms PLUS know what to do.

Heart attacks have traditionally been taught as sudden chest pain that radiates into the left arm or jaw; pale & sweaty skin; a feeling of doom; etc. Research now shows that women & people with diabetes (sugar problems) may have different symptoms. Learn more at:
- Go Red for Women's Symptoms of a Heart Attack & Hard to Recognize Heart Attack Symptoms
-National Heart, Lung, & Blood Institute's What are the Signs & Symptoms of Diabetic Heart Disease

Stroke symptoms can vary greatly depending on the kind, what part of the brain is impacted, & severity. A quick memory aid is FAST (Facial drooping, Arm weakness, Speech Difficulty, Time to call 911). Another common sign is a horribly severe headache.
- Stroke Association's Stroke Warning Signs & Symptoms  
- Go Red for Women's Myths & Facts About Strokes
- American Diabetes Association's Diabetes

These conditions may be extremely time sensitive.
Seek immediate medical assistance. Strongly consider calling 911. Emergency responders have training to recognize life threatening situations & can treat patients on the way to the hospital.

Learning CPR (Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation) can make you feel less helpless. Classes are often offered locally through many venues. In the meantime, check out the American Red Cross' Hands Only CPR video.