Take Care Tuesday

FACT: Heart disease is the leading cause of death for U.S. women!

FACT: African-American women are 35% more likely to die from heart disease than Caucasian women!

Rosie O'Donell, a well known comedian and talk show host has recently been in the news. Ms. O'Donnell, 50, suffered what she called a "widow maker" heart attack a week ago. O'Donnell reports that she suffered some shoulder pain and mild discomfort after helping a larger person out of the car. O'Donnell assumed she had "pulled a muscle" and simply took an aspirin. The next day Ms. O'Donnell's physician diagnosed a heart attack. Doctors removed a large blockage from her coronary artery and had to insert a stent to keep it open.

Rosie O'Donnell's story should be a wake up call for all--especially women! We often think of the typical signs of a heart attack as being severe chest pains. Although chest pain can be a symptom of  a heart attack for women, often the signs can be more subtle. According to the American Heart Association women may also experience what are called "atypical" symptoms, including:

• Back, jaw, lower chest, or upper belly pain or discomfort
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Shortness of breath
• Fatigue
• Dizziness
• Feeling Lightheaded
• Indigestion (upset stomach)
• Anxiety (feeling uneasy or worried)

Unfortunately, many of us tend to brush off problems that occur in our body, because we are too busy taking care of others. We must make our own health a priority. The truth is, you cannot take care of anyone if you are not here! If you experience any of the listed symptoms-- listen to your body! 

If you think you may be having a heart attack:

• Call 911: You need to get to the hospital as quickly as possible. The longer you wait for treatment, the greater the chance of permanent heart damage. 
• While you are waiting for the ambulance to arrive, chew an aspirin (unless you are allergic to aspirin, of course). This will help thin the blood and prevent heart damage.