Know Your Numbers
The first step to heart health is to know and understand the numbers that matter the most. 

These numbers can help you and your doctor determine your risks and mark the progress you’re making toward a healthier heart.  For a quick overview chart of the numbers; please visit Go Red for Women.

Signs, Heart Attack Warning Signs
Some heart attacks are sudden and intense, but most heart attacks start slowly, with mild pain or discomfort.  Often people aren’t sure what’s wrong and wait too long before getting help.  Here are some signs that a heart attack is happening:

  • Chest discomfort:  Most heart attacks involve discomfort in the center of the chest that lasts more than a few minutes, or that goes away and comes back.  It can feel like uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain.
  • Discomfort in other areas of the upper body:  Symptoms can include pain or discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw or stomach.
  • Shortness of breath with or without chest discomfort.
  • Other signs may include breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea or lightheadedness.

Women are more likely than men to experience some of the other symptoms, particularly shortness of breath, nausea/vomiting, and back or jaw pain.

Stroke Warning Signs
The American Stroke Association says these are the warning signs of stroke:

  • Sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm or leg, especially on one side of the body.
  • Sudden confusion, trouble speaking or understanding
  • Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes
  • Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination
  • Sudden, severe headache with no known cause

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Act in Time, dial 9-1-1 Fast
Not all these signs occur in heart attack or stroke.  Sometimes they go away and return.  If some occur, get help fast!  Don’t delay…get help right away!

Learn the signs….but remember this:  Even if you are not sure it is a heart attack or stroke, have it checked out.  Minutes matter!  Don’t wait more than five minutes to call 9-1-1.

Trust your instincts – If something doesn’t seem quite right with your body, listen to your heart and get the help you need. 

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