Happier Heart
Know Symptoms of Cardiac Distress to Safeguard
your Valentine
By Amy Morgan
Cardiovascular disease is responsible for the deaths of 1 in 3 women and 1 in 4 men, according to the American Heart Association. This Valentine’s month, rather than stocking up on candy hearts, safeguard the physical hearts of those you love. Be aware of the symptoms of cardiac problems so you know what to do should a loved one show signs of distress.
Heart disease is known as the silent killer because it can catch people unaware. Sudden onset of any heart-related symptom – chest pain, shortness of breath, chest pressure, heart palpitation or a sudden collapse – is reason to be evaluated, said Zack Baum, M.D., Medical Director of Physicians Premier free-standing emergency room, located west of Highway 281 on Highway 46 near the HEB Plus. Dr. Baum has been practicing emergency medicine for
12 years.
“If you are worried – don’t go it alone – and don’t wait,” Dr. Baum said. “The moment you have a concern, turn the decision about whether it is serious or not over to someone trained to determine the problem. You are not wasting my time. That’s why I’m here!” he said. “Even if the symptom seems mild, I am happy to help.”
Cardiac arrest is defined as when the heart stops beating – a life-ending condition that can be caused by a heart attack or brought on by arrythmia, also known as an abnormal heartbeat. Signs of heart attack vary greatly, even between men and women, Dr. Baum said. Chest pain described as pressure, heaviness, “somebody sitting on their chest,” is a hallmark. Women may experience pain that radiates to their shoulder or jaw. Don’t dismiss heartburn, which is one of the most common complaints – and especially if it is unusual and doesn’t resolve after taking typical antiacid medication. If experiencing symptoms, Dr. Baum advises to take an aspirin, which has been clinically proven effective in reducing tissue damage in case of heart attack or stroke and seek medical attention immediately. Call 911 or have someone drive you to the nearest emergency room.
Seconds count when treating a cardiac emergency. Tissue deprived of oxygen dies. “You only have a certain window of time to save the heart muscle,” Dr. Baum said. Speedy diagnosis and treatment in the ER are vital not only to prevent death, but also to allow for the best chance of recovery and avoid serious disability. The faster you can start CPR or get an AED and initiate treatment, the higher the chances of survival and good outcome.
In the ER, doctors will use specialized equipment including lab tests, X-Ray, and EKG to determine the problem and formulate a treatment plan. The physicians also can administer stronger medications to dissolve an offending clot or thin the blood to prevent further clotting prior to transferring the patient to a facility with full cardiac capability.
This February, resolve to brush up on the signs of heart problems so you can act quickly and celebrate many more years with your Valentine.
