Knowing the symptoms of a heart attack helped save Esme Gibson’s life. Here are some things we all should know:
HEART HEALTH matters. A heart attack may be sudden or intense, but many start with only mild pain and discomfort. Pay attention to how you’re feeling. If you experience any of these warning signs, act immediately and call 911.
Get heart smart.
Know the symptoms of a heart attack, and that they might be different for men and women.
SYMPTOMS
MEN
WOMEN
• Chest discomfort, pressure or pain
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• Pain or discomfort in arms, back, neck, jaw or stomach
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• Shortness of breath
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• Nausea, cold sweat
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• Dizziness, lightheadedness, fainting
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• Pain or pressure in the lower chest or upper abdomen
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• Extreme fatigue
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The choices you make every day can affect your heart and your overall health.
1.
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Maintain a healthy weight. Eat only the calories that your body needs to remain in a healthy weight range based on your age and activity level.
2.
Make smart food choices. Focus on eating vegetables and fruits, whole grains, nuts and legumes, low-fat poultry, fish and dairy, and healthy oils like olive and sunflower.
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3.
Move your body. Stay physically active by getting at least 150 minutes of moderate movement or at least 75 minutes of vigorous movement each week.
Moderation is key. From managing stress through exercise or meditation, to moderating how much alcohol you drink, keeping a healthy balance is vital to heart health.
5.
Manage risk factors. Control high blood pressure, actively manage cholesterol and diabetes, and quit smoking. Your heart will thank you!
