It is very important to understand heart disease, the risk factors for a heart attack and to recognize the signs of a heart attack. Heart disease kills more women each year than the next six leading causes of death combined, including all forms of cancer.

What is a heart attack?

A heart attack, sometimes called a Myocardial Infarction (MI), occurs when the flow of blood and oxygen to the heart are interrupted. Some heart attacks are sudden and intense, but many heart attacks begin slowly, with only mild pain or discomfort. Unfortunately, this leads many people to wait too long to seek medical help. Individuals should be encouraged to follow-up with their physician to address any health related concerns. Many heart attack patients could be treated very effectively as long as they receive medical treatment in time. Every heart attack is a potential life-threatening situation.

Warning Signs of a Heart Attack

It is important to become familiar with the symptoms of a heart attack, but remember that not all symptoms will occur in every heart attack.

• Chest discomfort: Often at the center of the chest, and usually lasting more than a few minutes. The discomfort may go away and come back. Often the discomfort feels like uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness, or pain.
• Discomfort in other areas of the upper body: Symptoms can include pain or discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw, or stomach.
• Shortness of breath: This can occur with or without chest discomfort.
• Other signs: These can include breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea, or lightheadedness.

If you or a loved one experiences symptoms of a heart attack, call 9-1-1 immediately.

Risk Factors for a Heart Attack

Some risk factors for heart attack are uncontrollable – such as age, race, and family health history. However, other risk factors are controllable or avoidable, including:

• Smoking
• Inactivity
• Poor Nutrition
• Obesity

For more information about heart health, please visit the America Heart Association’s website, www.americanheart.org or call toll-free, 1-800-AHA-USA-1 (1-800-242-8721).

If you need private duty nursing in your home to assist patients with heart disease or congestive heart failure, request a free consultation.