Recognizing the Signs of a Heart Attack or Stroke

Heart Health Month Spotlight

Welcome to Heart Health Month, a time to bring the spotlight on the crucial matters that affect our heart and its health. As a solo doctor concierge primary care physician, your heart's health is at the center of my practice. Today, I invite you to join me in discussing a topic that could one day, hopefully never, save your life or the life of someone you love.

Heart attacks and strokes are among the leading causes of death globally. While they may appear to strike suddenly, they often produce warning signs that prompt action can address. Early recognition and swift response can significantly reduce the damage caused by these emergencies. In this post, I will guide you through the signs and symptoms of both a heart attack and a stroke, a crucial piece of information everyone should know.

Understanding a Heart Attack

A heart attack, medically known as a myocardial infarction, occurs when an artery supplying blood to the heart gets blocked. This blockage results in damage to the heart muscle due to lack of oxygen. Heart attacks can be life-threatening, and understanding the warning signs is crucial.

Common Signs of a Heart Attack:

• Chest Discomfort: This includes pain, pressure, squeezing, or a feeling of fullness in the center or left side of your chest. The sensation can last more than a few minutes or go away and come back.

• Discomfort in Other Areas: This includes pain or discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw, or stomach.

• Shortness of Breath: Often occurs with or before chest discomfort.

• Other Symptoms: These can include breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea, or lightheadedness.

It's important to understand that men and women may experience a heart attack differently. While chest pain is common for both, women may be more likely to experience some of the other symptoms, particularly shortness of breath, nausea/vomiting, and back or jaw pain.

Spotting a Stroke

Strokes occur either due to an obstruction within a blood vessel supplying blood to the brain, known as an ischemic stroke, or by the bursting of a blood vessel, known as a hemorrhagic stroke. Both kinds are severe and can lead to lasting damage if not treated quickly.

Remember the Acronym F.A.S.T.:

• Face Drooping: Ask the person to smile. Does one side of the face droop?

• Arm Weakness: Ask the person to raise both arms. Is one arm weak or numb?

• Speech Difficulty: Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence. Are the words slurred? Is the person unable to speak or hard to understand?

• Time to Call 911: If someone shows any of these symptoms, even if they go away, call 911 and get them to the hospital immediately.

Other Signs of a Stroke:

• Sudden Numbness: Particularly on one side of the body.

• Sudden Confusion: Trouble speaking or understanding.

• Sudden Trouble Seeing: In one or both eyes.

• Sudden Trouble Walking: Dizziness, loss of balance, or coordination.

• Sudden Severe Headache: With no known cause.

The Importance of Action

Time is of the essence. If you believe you or someone else is experiencing a heart attack or stroke, it is essential to call emergency services immediately. Even if you are unsure, it is better to err on the side of caution. Access to medical attention within the first hour, known as the "golden hour," can significantly improve outcomes.

While the symptoms outlined here are not an exhaustive list, they form the most commonly reported indicators. Always listen to your body and act quickly if something feels wrong. Beyond understanding these signs, maintaining regular check-ups and speaking to your physician about any concerns can play a crucial role in preventing heart attacks or strokes.

How I Can Help

At my solo doctor concierge practice, I am dedicated to your comprehensive heart health. As your physician, my goal is to provide personalized care that considers your unique health profile. I encourage open communication, proactive health management, and ongoing education to support your well-being.

If you are not already a part of my practice, now is a perfect time to consider joining. Heart Health Month is a call to action for all of us to take heart health seriously. As your healthcare provider, I am here to answer your questions, provide insights into preventive measures, and offer check-ups to ensure your heart stays healthy.

Do not wait for symptoms to make heart health a priority. Reach out today, and let us walk this journey of health together. Sign up now to book a consultation, and together we can create a plan that keeps your heart beating strong and healthy. Your future heart health is worth every effort. Do not hesitate to get in touch. Learn, act, and stay healthy!

Contact us at 240-389-1986 or visit our website at www.tirmal-md.com to learn more and schedule your appointment.