February is National Heart Health Month, and while it's a great time to focus on healthy habits, it can also stir up some anxieties. Maybe you're worried about your own heart health or that of a loved one. Perhaps recent news stories have you feeling a bit vulnerable, wondering, "What if something happens and I don't know what to do?" The thought of facing a medical emergency can be truly frightening.
But what if you felt empowered and prepared to act? What if you knew you had the skills to make a real difference in a critical moment?
This month at Lifesaving Hearts, we're focusing on helping you gain the confidence and peace of mind that comes with being prepared.
Early recognition and immediate action can significantly improve the chances of survival. Here's a breakdown of the key symptoms to watch for:
Chest Discomfort: This is the most common sign of a heart attack. The discomfort can vary, but it often feels like a pressure, squeezing, fullness, or pain in the center of the chest. It might last for several minutes or come and go.
Discomfort in Other Body Parts: Heart attack pain can radiate beyond the chest. You might experience pain or discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw, or even the stomach.
Shortness of Breath: This can occur with or without chest discomfort. It may feel like you're having trouble breathing or gasping for air.
Important Considerations:
Women may experience different symptoms: While chest pain is common, women are more likely to experience shortness of breath, nausea, vomiting, and back or jaw pain.
Time is crucial: If you suspect someone is having a heart attack, call emergency services immediately. Every minute counts.
Remember: Even if you're unsure, it's always better to err on the side of caution and seek medical attention. Early intervention can significantly improve the chances of a positive outcome.
2 ways to
Prevent Heart Attacks
While we can't always predict or prevent heart attacks, there are steps you can take to significantly reduce your risk. Here are two key strategies to focus on:
1. Embrace a Heart-Healthy Lifestyle:
Eat a balanced diet: Focus on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein. Limit saturated and trans fats, cholesterol, sodium, and added sugars.
Stay active: Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week.
Maintain a healthy weight: Losing even a small amount of weight can make a big difference in your heart health.
Quit smoking: Smoking is a major risk factor for heart disease.
Limit alcohol consumption: If you drink alcohol, do so in moderation.
2. Manage Your Risk Factors:
Control your blood pressure: High blood pressure puts extra strain on your heart.
Manage your cholesterol levels: High cholesterol can clog your arteries.
Keep your blood sugar in check: Diabetes increases your risk of heart disease.
Get regular checkups: See your doctor for regular checkups and screenings, even if you feel healthy.
By taking these steps, you can significantly reduce your risk of heart attack and improve your overall heart health. Remember, small changes can make a big difference!
Additional Tips:
Educate yourself and your loved ones about heart attack symptoms.
Learn CPR and how to use an AED.
By being informed and prepared, you can play a vital role in saving lives during a heart attack. Together, let's make this February a month of heart health awareness and action.
Please note: This information is not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.
our recent CNA GRADUATES
We are so proud of our newest graduates of our CNA program.
This was truly a unique and special class!! They shined in every way over the last 4 weeks and worked so well together to grow in their learning! We are so excited to see what the future holds for this amazing group of new CNAs!
Congratulations!!!
UPCOMING
CLASSES
Stay tuned for more heart health tips and info throughout the month! We'll be sharing more life-saving knowledge and ways you can get involved with Lifesaving Hearts CPR. And as always, feel free to reach out if you have any questions.
Stay heart-healthy,
-Nicole Hayes, RN
1305 Mall of Georgia Blvd, suite 140 Buford, GA 30519, United States of America
