Zebra Ink Magazine January 2024 issue

Page 18

Not Just Responders … Creating a Heart Healthy Community VAL WOODS

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y only sibling, Pettis Curtis Adams III, went into cardiac arrest in 2018. Unfortunately, bystanders did not know Heart attack symptoms are not always dramatic like how to perform Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), but they appear in the movies. Symptoms can include: they immediately called emergency medical services (EMS). • pressure or pain in your chest EMS arrived within five minutes, but it was too late. As a • shortness of breath with usual activities result, I established Val Woods CPR committed to empower • sweating at rest individuals with life-saving skills, cultivate a culture of • feeling weak or lightheaded preparedness, and tackle the prevalent heart health concerns • experiencing pain in the neck, back, jaw, arms, stomach within communities. Beyond the scope of CPR training, Val or shoulders Woods CPR strives to foster a community that recognizes • nausea, vomiting, and feeling sick. the vital significance of heart health through comprehensive education and heightened awareness. The mission is to create not just responders, but a community that values and prioritizes heart health, paving the way for a safer and healthier For women these heart attack symptoms can also include nausea/vomiting, abdominal pain or cramping, indigestion or future. heartburn, and back or jaw pain. Most women do not even realize they are having a heart attack. Regardless of gender This article shares how to recognize the symptoms of a heart difference, if you experience any of these symptoms seek attack. medical help immediately! A heart attack occurs when oxygen-rich blood flow to the heart is blocked due to a clogged artery. If not reopened quickly, the Did you know that you can be a superhero against heart section of the heart not receiving this oxygen-rich blood will disease! Here’s your power plan: begin to die. • Set up a call with your healthcare provider to learn your heart risk. Every 40 seconds someone in the US has a heart attack. The symptoms of a heart attack can be different for men and • Stop smoking—just one year without smoking slashes your heart risk in half. women. So, if you ever feel something strange, don’t brush it • Get moving for at least 150 minutes a week, like brisk off. Dial 911 right away—it could be a difference between life walks or jogging. Pumping iron twice a week is a bonus! and death. Check with your healthcare provider! • Upgrade your family’s menu with smart swaps, tasty snacks, and healthier cooking. • Learn CPR - Sign up for a class with Val Woods CPR at DISCLAIMER: This article is not meant to be a medical https://www.valwoodscpr.com/ service. Never ignore professional medical advice in seeking treatment because of something you read in this article. If For more information on common heart attack warning signs: Heart Attack Warning Signs you have a medical emergency, call 911 immediately. Cardiac Arrest Vs. Heart Attack Heart Attack Info

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