by Carol Bradley Bursack, Editor-in-Chief of ElderCareLink
Are you at risk for heart disease?
You most likely know the risks for heart disease, but it doesn’t hurt to read the list again: high cholesterol, high triglycerides, untreated diabetes, smoking, high blood pressure, obesity, stress and lack of regular exercise.
How do you know if you should rush to the emergency room?
If you are suffering from chest discomfort that lasts for more the a few minutes or chest pain that goes away and then returns, pain in one or both arms or the back, shortness of breath, nausea, lightheadedness or a cold sweat, you should get yourself checked out immediately. Dr. Stork says that far too many people go to the emergency room too late. Be proactive and don’t be embarrassed if you go in to be checked and find out it’s a gas pain.
Women often have more subtle symptoms
It’s even tougher for women than men to decide if they need ER treatment, because they tend to have more subtle symptoms. Look for fatigue, indigestion, pain and discomfort in the stomach, and/or headaches.
Most of all–and this goes for men, too–if you feel “different” and there’s a gut feeling something is wrong, listen to your body. Get checked out. Dr. Stork said that “something just didn’t feel right” is what he often hears from people who come in to the ER, and they are right. So take action if you feel something unusual is going on with your body.
Heart disease in caregivers and elders can be tricky to diagnose
I asked Dr. Stork how caregivers who frequently fight fatigue and many stress-related issues can tell if they are truly in need of medical attention. He repeated the mantra “if you have a gut feeling that something is wrong, you need to get checked.”
He emphasized that people go through many years of medical training before earning the right to practice medicine. He said even doctors don’t diagnose a heart attack by symptoms alone. That’s why they run tests and do a thorough examination. If a doctor can’t diagnose your heart problem by symptoms alone, the rest of us surely can’t.
Do yourself a favor during February. Remember that it’s Heart Health Month, and put on your walking shoes. Get out the door. Get moving. Your heart needs your cooperation.
