February 2011
Where caring counts. Feel the difference.
TM
Vol. 27 No. 1
February is Heart Month Our
Was That a Heart Attack? Knowing the symptoms of a heart attack and getting early treatment helps to keep your heart healthy. Heart attacks may catch people by surprise. Women, especially, tend to experience warning signs of a heart attack differently from men. In some cases, women don’t even know they’ve suffered a heart attack. They might not feel the typical pain in the left half of their chest. Women may, however, feel lightheaded and sweaty, with an upset stomach and burning in their upper abdomen. Heart attacks, often caused by blocked heart vessels, have the following classic symptoms: Chest pain, fullness, pressure, squeezing, or tightness, lasting five minutes or longer. Constant discomfort, similar to indigestion. Chest pain traveling to your arms, back, jaw, shoulders, or neck. Dizziness, fainting, sweating, lightheadedness, or an upset stomach. Unexplained shortness of breath. Unexplained anxiety, tiredness, or weakness. A cold sweat, palpitations, or pale skin. Increased or irregular heart rate. If you experience any of these symptoms please call 9-1-1 and get to Mason General Hospital as soon as possible.
heart, next to our brain, is the most important organ in our body. And it is one organ that is easily impacted by what we eat and what we do (or don’t eat and do). Everyone needs a strong, healthy heart to keep living. Heart health conditions to be aware of include coronary heart disease, abnormal heart rhythm, heart valve disease, aorta problems, and a heart muscle disease called cardiomyopathy. A few common causes of heart disease include high blood sugar, second-hand smoke, stress, arthritis, and depression. Certain complications during pregnancy may also indicate a likelihood of developing heart disease in some women. Omega 3 fatty acids, however, appear to lower blood pressure and decrease the overall risk of heart disease and heart attacks. Studies show that fish oil, which is rich in omega-3s, may also reduce arrhythmias and the risk of stroke. There are many ways to maintain a healthy heart. Here are a few tips: Eat more vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and legumes, while limiting fat – especially saturated fats and trans-fatty acids.
Cook with fats high in monounsaturates, such as canola and olive oils and some nuts. Balance a healthy variety of protein from meat, dairy, and vegetables. Cut out foods high in cholesterol and saturated fats. Replace simple carbohydrates such as sugar, soda pop, and sweets with complex carbohydrates, such as potatoes, pasta, and whole-grain breads. Eat smaller meals more often throughout the day. Don’t skip meals. Reduce sodium intake by avoiding preprepared foods and eliminate adding salt to your food. Exercise daily. Drink plenty of water. Take your prescribed medications, such as high blood pressure medicines, as directed by your physician At Mason General Hospital we take your heart health seriously. One way is through our Congestive Heart Failure classes, that are offered twice a year to help patients with this condition learn self-management skills. If you want more information on Congestive Heart Health please call (360) 426-1611, and ask for MGH’s Education Department.
How To Give Up Sod Without Giving Up ium Your Life
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