Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in the United States; in fact, 2200 people die every day from heart disease and stroke. Many of these could have been prevented.
Prevention starts with everyone. Protect yourself and your loved ones from heart disease and stroke by understanding the risks and taking these steps:
• Control your blood pressure
• Maintain a healthy cholesterol level
• Try to get 30 minutes of activity most days of the week
• If you smoke, get help to quit
Also, it is important to recognize the signs of a heart attack and to act immediately by calling 9–1–1. A person’s chances of surviving a heart attack are increased if emergency treatment is given to the victim as soon as possible.
The five major symptoms of a heart attack are:
• Pain or discomfort in the jaw, neck, or back
• Feeling weak, light-headed, or faint
• Chest pain or discomfort
• Pain or discomfort in arms or shoulder
• Shortness of breath
If you think that you or someone you know is having a heart attack, you should call 9–1–1 immediately.