J
odie Smith’s symptoms first appeared in the year 2000 as a squeezing pain in her upper abdomen. Just 32 years old and in good shape, Jodie didn’t fit the typical mold of a heart disease patient. Doctors thought the problem was her appendix, then her gall bladder, and one suggested she see a psychiatrist. Several months later a massive heart attack revealed that Jodie’s heart was severely damaged. During her fourth heart attack in November of 2012, Jodie’s heart completely stopped. She was revived and received cutting-edge treatment that minimized damage to her brain and vital organs.
What She is Doing Now:
Jodie, now 45, has been eating right and exercising for years. She now has a defibrillator implanted, but her health remains unstable. Her biggest priority right now is spending as much time as possible with her loved ones, especially her young granddaughter.
What She Wants You to Know: Heart disease is the number one killer of women, and catching it early can save your life. Be proactive: Know your body, learn about heart disease, find a doctor who will listen and not dismiss your symptoms, and ask for tests like EKGs and heart CT scans. Jodie is wearing: Ralph Lauren shoes, $38, available at Dillard’s Mall
Pump Up… Your Knowledge of the Warning Signs
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igns that your heart isn’t working as it should include shortness of breath and difficulty breathing when lying down, persistent coughing or wheezing, lingering flu-like symptoms, fatigue, swelling, and a racing heartbeat. When having a heart attack, women may experience a feeling of pressure, squeezing, and fullness of pain in their chest or upper abdomen that can last for a few minutes or come and go. Other symptoms of a heart attack include nausea, dizziness, sweating, extreme fatigue, and pain or discomfort in arms, back, neck, jaw, or stomach. If you think you may be having a heart attack, call 9-1-1 immediately. Source: AHA, heart.org and goredforwomen.org
H-8 v Go Red For Women v 2013
Today’s Woman