One in five deaths in the United States is linked to cardiovascular diseases, which include heart attacks, heart disease, strokes or other related conditions.
These cardiovascular issues can be associated with factors such as high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, smoking, high cholesterol, excessive alcohol use and physical inactivity. Fortunately, many of these conditions can be managed with lifestyle changes and/or medication. These cardiovascular problems can restrict blood flow to your heart and arteries, leading to a heart attack.
Recognizing the symptoms of a heart attack is crucial. While some heart attacks occur suddenly and are intense, most begin slowly with mild pain and discomfort that may not be immediately recognized as a warning sign. By being aware of these signs, you can take control of your health and seek help promptly.
Most heart attacks start with chest discomfort, typically located in the center of the chest and lasting more than a few minutes. This uncomfortable pressure may come and go, giving a sensation of fullness, squeezing or pain.
Additionally, discomfort in other upper body parts can signal a heart attack. Symptoms may include pain or discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw or stomach.
Shortness of breath, cold sweats, nausea and light-headedness are potential signs of a heart attack.
Chest pain and discomfort are the primary indicators of a heart attack for both men and women. However, women are more likely than men to experience other common symptoms, such as shortness of breath, nausea or vomiting, and pain in the back or jaw.
Understanding these signs is vital. Even if you’re unsure whether you’re experiencing a heart attack, it’s important to seek medical attention, either at the nearest emergency room or by calling 911 for emergency medical assistance.
The state has designated Texas County Memorial Hospital (TCMH) a “Level Four STEMI” hospital, indicating its capability to respond effectively to patients experiencing an ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction, commonly known as a heart attack. This classification means a highly skilled and dedicated team is always prepared to provide the best care in critical situations.
Lauren Toman, the cardiopulmonary director and STEMI coordinator at TCMH, collaborates closely with the emergency and cardiopulmonary department teams to reduce critical response times for heart attack patients in the area.
“In 2024, 553 patients arrived at TCMH with symptoms of a heart attack, and thirteen of them were identified as STEMIs,” Toman said. “We put in significant effort to identify those 13 cases that could quickly become fatal, and every life saved is invaluable.”
Each time, the STEMI response team is activated to treat or rule out a heart attack. Toman and her team know that every minute counts for patients who may be experiencing a heart attack.
“The heart is a large muscle, and during a heart attack, blood flow stops, causing the muscle to die,” Toman said. “Every minute we have with a heart attack victim presents an opportunity to save more of that patient’s heart.”
February is American Heart Month, a time to focus on heart health. Let’s come together as a community to reduce our risk for heart disease, which is the leading cause of death for Americans. This month is more than just a time for awareness; it’s an excellent opportunity to adopt heart-healthy habits. We should nourish our bodies with a healthy diet, engage in regular physical activity, avoid smoking, maintain a healthy weight, monitor our blood sugar, manage our cholesterol and blood pressure, and prioritize regular checkups.
For more information about heart attack symptoms and health factors that contribute to heart attacks, contact Toman at 866-967-3311 or ltoman@tcmh.org.