Not all broken hearts are related to romantic issues! February is American Heart Month and Melina Papadakis looks into heart disease among women. Here at Boomerful.com, we want you to have a strong, healthy, loving heart!
When it comes to heart attacks, what you don’t know could kill you. Each year, about 40,000 women in America under age 55 are hospitalized for heart disease - and 16,000 will die. Yet heart disease just isn't on most women's radar. The February issue of Ladies' Home Journal explains why symptoms can be so different from what is expected, and offers these six steps that could save your life if you ever think you’re having a heart attack.
1. Know the Symptoms: A majority of male and female heart attack survivors in a university study admitted there was less discomfort than they would have expected. Instead of chest pain, you may feel pressure or a pain or unusual sensations somewhere other than your chest, such as your upper abdomen, the left side of your back, your shoulder - even your jaw. Sudden onset of fatigue, nausea and weakness are also common female symptoms.
2. Call 911 Immediately: Say forcefully that you think you're having a heart attack. Don't worry about being wrong - there's a limited window of time to get the full benefit of clot-busting drugs and balloon angioplasty.
3. Consider Aspirin: Taking an aspirin soon after a heart attack can significantly improve survival - but not always. Ask the 911 operator.
4. Wait for the Ambulance: Arriving by ambulance can speed up "door-to-balloon angioplasty" by up to 18 minutes, on average. Also, if your heart stops in an ambulance, paramedics can immediately use a defibrillator, which can shock it back into a healthy rhythm.
5. Don't Go Alone: Always call 911 first. After that, contact a family member, friend or neighbor who can get to your location the fastest. Tell them what your symptoms are, as well as the location of your insurance card and contact list. Also write down what you feel you have, and unlock your door in case you lose consciousness. Loosen any tight clothing and sit or lie down in a comfortable position.
6. Know Your Hospitals: You may be able to be taken to the hospital of your choice - however, the crew may be unable to comply if they are urgently needed for other calls.
Also, keep a Heart Attack Emergency Kit on hand!
* Keep a bottle of uncoated aspirin in your cabinet.
* Prepare a contact list.
* Keep a pen and pad handy to write down your symptoms in case you become unable to speak.
* Ask your doctor which hospital to use for emergencies and research the best cardio units near you.
* If you're allergic to any drugs or have a chronic health issue, consider wearing a medical bracelet.
* Know your insurance plan's rules for ER treatment, including those for using out-of-network hospitals.
Have you ever had a heart attack? If so, what were the symptoms? Did you know immediately that you were having a heart attack?
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