Friday, July 23, 2010

Knowing the Signs Saves Lives!

Here in the United States, we're fighting a very tough killer: heart disease. Every year, 1.2 million people suffer a heart attack, and almost 40 percent of them die. It doesn't have to be that way! The faster a person having a heart attack gets medical care, the better his or her chances are for survival and recovery. And you can do something about that!

Whether you're 25 or 85, it's important to know the symptoms of a heart attack. While heart disease is more common among older individuals, young people sometimes experience heart attacks, too — many times without any history of heart disease. Even if you know your heart is strong and pumping, you probably come into contact throughout your day with people who are at risk. A simple way to be prepared is to make sure you recognize these signs of a heart attack, from the American Heart Association, so you can respond ASAP!

  • Chest pain or discomfort
  • Discomfort in other areas of the body, such as the arms, back, neck, jaw, and stomach
  • Shortness of breath
  • Sweating
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Light-headedness
  • Jaw pain

If you think you or someone else is having a heart attack, call for emergency help right away!

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