| Heart
Attack -- (myocardial infarction) n. |
|
Damage to an area of heart
muscle that is deprived of oxygen, usually due to blockage of a
diseased coronary artery, typically accompanied by chest pain
radiating down one or both arms.
|
Heart Attack
Heart attack is a common, but devastating reason for an Emergency Room
visit. Unfortunately, too many people wait too long before seeking emergency
medical attention. If you have a heart attack, seeking help within 30 minutes
doubles your chance of surviving.
Your life-saving warning signs
Heart attack is the leading cause of death for all Americans over the age
of 40 for both men and women. The six warning signs of heart attack are:
- chest pain
- radiating pain
- indigestion
- shortness of breath
- dizziness
- profuse sweating
Risk factors beyond your control
| Age |
Risk of heart disease increases with age. |
| Gender |
Males are at higher risk than females, although the
risk is equal after menopause. |
| Race |
African Americans and Hispanic Americans have a
higher incidence of cardiovascular disease than white
Americans. |
| Family
History |
Find out if heart disease runs in your
family, so you can take an aggressive stance. |
Risk factors you can control:
| Smoking |
Quitting smoking cuts your risk of heart disease.
After 10 years smoke-free, your risk of heart disease is
nearly the same as a non-smoker. |
| Uncontrolled
Diabetes |
If you have diabetes, your physician
and his or her healthcare team can help you keep it under
control |
| Physical
Inactivity |
For healthy living, the Surgeon
General suggests at least 30 minutes of exercise per day on
most days. |
| Uncontrolled high blood
pressure |
Hypertension strikes
one in every three Americans, but you can control it. Talk
with your physician. |
| High cholesterol
level |
High LDL (bad cholesterol) and
low HDL (good cholesterol) can be improved through
lifestyle changes such as a heart-healthy diet and
increased exercise. |
| Obesity |
Obesity is classified as 20% over ideal body
weight or a BMI (body mass index) of greater than or equal
to 30. |
| Diet |
A low fat, high fiber diet with plenty of fruits,
vegetables, grains, and cereals will lower your risk of
heart disease. |
| Stress |
Everyone experiences stress, but uncontrolled
stress and anger increase your risk of heart disease.
Learning to manage stress well can decrease your risk. |
What You Can Do
- Know the symptoms of heart attack.
- Take CPR training so you
can help someone who needs it.
For more information about what you can do to reduce your risk, contact the
Center for Healthy Lifestyles at 309-661-5151 or visit the
wellness center or library in your community
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