February Is American Heart Month

Heart disease is the leading cause of death for men and women in the United States. Every year, 1 in 4 deaths are caused by heart disease.

The good news? Heart disease can often be prevented when people make healthy choices and manage their health conditions. Communities, health professionals, and families can work together to create opportunities for people to make healthier choices.

Make a difference in your community: Spread the word about strategies for preventing heart disease and encourage people to live heart healthy lives.

We can use this month to raise awareness about heart disease and how people can prevent it — both at home and in the community.

Here are just a few ideas:

• Encourage families to make small changes, like using spices to season their food instead of salt.

• Motivate teachers and administrators to make physical activity a part of the school day. This can help students start good habits early.

• Ask doctors and nurses to be leaders in their communities by speaking out about ways to prevent heart disease.

WARNING SIGNS OF HEART ATTACK, STROKE & CARDIAC ARREST

Heart Attack Warning Signs:

Chest Discomfort

Discomfort in other areas of the upper body

Shortness of Breath

Other signs may include breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea or lightheadedness

Stroke Warning Signs

Spot a stroke F.A.S.T.

- Face Drooping Does one side of the face droop or is it numb? Ask the person to smile.

- Arm Weakness Is one arm weak or numb? Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?

- Speech Difficulty Is speech slurred, are they unable to speak, or are they hard to understand? Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence, like "the sky is blue." Is the sentence repeated correctly?

- Time to call 9-1-1 If the person shows any of these symptoms, even if the symptoms go away, call 9-1-1 and get them to the hospital immediately.

Cardiac Arrest Warning Signs

Sudden loss of Responsiveness

No Normal Breaking

If these signs are present CALL 9-1-1