Recognizing the signs of a heart attack
Did you know that February is heart health month? For this reason, make it a point to recognize the signs of a heart attack. More than 800,000 people have heart attacks each year in this country and many do not realize what is happening. Also, identifying heart attack risks is crucial for elderly care and senior home care, too. We encourage everyone to know the signs of a heart attack.
If you or someone you care for experience any of the following symptoms call 911 immediately.
Chest Discomfort
Chest discomfort is the most common sign of a heart attack, among both men and women. The discomfort begins as pressure in the center of your chest. This can last or it may go away and return intermittently. It may become worse, and it could be accompanied by other symptoms, including radiating pain or nausea.
Extreme Exhaustion
Another sign of a heart attack is extreme exhaustion or fatigue. Even when you are not exerting yourself or moving around, you may feel very tired or have a heavy-feeling chest from the simplest of activities, like using the bathroom.
Other Pain
It is not uncommon to experience other pain outside of your chest when having a heart attack. For example, you may feel pain or discomfort in your arms, neck, back, belly, or your jaw may hurt and ache. It is particularly important for clients to inform their care providers of any discomfort or pain during elderly in home care visits, as these could be symptoms of a heart attack.
Excessive Sweating
If you experience profuse sweating that is somewhat unexpected, this could be a sign of a heart attack. If the sweating is combined with at least one other symptom, seek medical attention. For instance, if you are having pain in your chest and are sweating, or if you are having difficulty breathing, are exhausted, and are experiencing sweating, you could be having a heart attack.
Difficulty Breathing
Do you have shortness of breath? How about difficulty breathing? Sometimes, a heart attack can feel like someone, or something is constricting your airway. This may happen with or without pain or discomfort in your chest. When you are having a heart attack, the breathing issue is worse when you try to lay down.
Nausea or Queasiness
Also, do not ignore prolonged or sudden nausea. If you feel queasy and it is accompanied by any of the other sign of a heart attack, take it seriously and call 911. Nausea is more commonly a symptom among women than men when it comes to heart attacks.
If you experience these signs of a heart attack, do not wait for help. These can come on quickly, but you may also feel them worsen gradually. Call 911 for assistance right away.
For those that live in Colorado Springs, tell your caregivers at Gentle Shepherd Home Care, a premier and locally owned In-Home Care provider, if you are experiencing any of these symptoms. We provide in home senior care and serve Colorado Springs and its surrounding areas. Our caregivers are specially trained to care for seniors who have been diagnosed with heart disease or are recovering from a recent heart attack or stroke.
Contact us today to learn more about in home care in Colorado Springs. We offer a complimentary care assessment to determine the best care for your needs.
