Each year, the month of February is filled with images celebrating Valentine’s Day. The heart-focused theme doesn’t have to end on the holiday, however. February is designated “American Heart Month” by the American Heart Association and has been for nearly 50 years. “A time to battle cardiovascular disease and educate Americans on what we can do to live heart-healthy lives,” heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, equal to 2,200 deaths per day.
Nicholas “Dr. Nick” Yphantides, M.D., M.P.H., medical editor for TOPS Club Inc. (Take Off Pounds Sensibly), the nonprofit weight-loss support organization, offers the following recommendations to proactively promote a healthier heart – and ultimately, a better quality of life.
Signs of a heart attack
First, know the common signs of a heart attack and what can be done to prevent such medical emergencies. If you think you or someone you know is having a heart attack, call 9-1-1 immediately. A quick response can save your life or someone else’s and prevent permanent damage to the heart muscle. The various treatments for heart attacks work best if they are given within one hour of when symptoms begin, or as soon as possible.
Common symptoms of a heart attack include:
• Unusually heavy pressure on the chest that lasts more than a few minutes, or goes away and comes back;
• Sharp upper-body pain in the neck, back, and jaw;
• Severe shortness of breath;
• Cold sweats;
• Unusual or unexplained tiredness;
• Unfamiliar dizziness or light-headedness; and/or
• Unexplained nausea or vomiting.
It is so important that it is worth repeating – time is of the essence. The sooner emergency medical systems are activated during a heart attack, the better chances for health and survival.
Know the facts
Some conditions and lifestyle factors can put you at a higher risk for developing heart disease and having a heart attack. Genetics can also have a significant impact. For those who already know they have heart disease, the need to be proactive with health and lifestyle decisions is especially great.
These conditions increase the risk of a heart attack: elevated cholesterol levels, high blood pressure and diabetes mellitus.
Other factors that can increase your risk for a heart attack include: smoking, eating habits, a sedentary lifestyle, excess weight, and alcohol use .
TOPS Club Inc. (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) is the original weight-loss support and wellness education organization. TOPS is the only nonprofit, noncommercial weight-loss organization of its kind.
To find a local chapter, view www.tops.org or call (800) 932-8677.
