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Our weekly news column bringing the most current, non-biased health
information to the consumer. |
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February 23, 2010 |
A Publication of QVHD |
“ACT IN TIME”
By: V. Deborah Culligan, RN, MPH,
Deputy Director QVHD
"Act in Time to Heart
Attack Signs” is an important slogan to remember. What does it mean?
Statistically, it is known that heart attacks that are treated within
one hour of occurrence have incredibly better outcomes! This means
that quick response with medical intervention can prevent permanent
heart damage or even save your life!
Many people are embarrassed to call 911 for help if they aren't sure
they are having a heart attack. This is very unfortunate because
quick action can save a life. Others think that heart attacks occur with
sudden, intense pain (“the Hollywood version” – Remember Fred Sanford?)
This is unfortunate because many heart attacks start slowly with
a mild pain or discomfort or feeling like you have indigestion. Symptoms
can differ between men and women. The symptoms can come and go.
Still others believe if they are having a heart attack, they are going
to die, so why bother to act quickly? The answer is because quick
action can save a life.
Why does a quick response make such a big difference in survival rates?
The answer is because clot-busting drugs and other artery
opening treatments can stop a heart attack in its tracks, thus
preventing or limiting damage. But they need to be started immediately
after symptoms begin; the sooner the better! Ideally the time frame
is within 1 hour. This doesn't leave much time to debate whether or
not you should seek treatment!
What are the symptoms of a heart attack? The warning signs are:
- Chest discomfort. Most heart attacks involve discomfort
in the center of the chest that lasts for more than a few minutes or
goes away and come back. The discomfort can feel like uncomfortable
pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain.
- Discomfort in other areas of the upper body. This can
include pain or discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw
or stomach.
- Shortness of breath. This often occurs along with chest
discomfort. But it can also occur before chest discomfort.
- Other symptoms include breaking out in a cold sweat,
nausea, or light-headedness or feeling like you have indigestion,
but it doesn't go away.
In the old days, heart attacks meant sure death. But in today's
world,
life can go on for many years following a heart attack. Learn to
recognize the signs of a heart attack and take quick action if a heart
attack is suspected. The experts say wait no more than 5 minutes.
Who should you call if you suspect a heart attack? The answer is 911.
Emergency medical personnel can start you on treatment the moment they
arrive on the scene. If a family member or friend takes you, you delay
treatment and decrease the odds of survival. Don't even stop to take an
aspirin. The EMS can do that on the way to the hospital. Remember, it is
quick action that saves lives from heart attacks. Don't be embarrassed.
Be proactive!
For an information packet on this topic, QVHD residents can call
248-4528 or request on line, www.qvhd.org.
| An Ounce of Prevention is a
publication of the Quinnipiack Valley Health District, located at
1151 Hartford Turnpike, North Haven, CT 06473. Telephone:
248-4528. An Ounce of Prevention is
written by V. Deborah Culligan. The articles are published in the following local newspapers, The Advisor &
Beth-Wood News.
The content is provided as health education and
information to help you make health decisions. It is not intended to
be legal or medical advice, or substitute for recommendations made
by your health care provider. Address all comments to the district
office. |
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