Amy Eversole, MD, a cardiologist on staff at Martin Memorial, recently explained during a lecture the common causes of heart failure.
These contributing factors may include: damage after a heart attack, high blood pressure, myocarditis (inflammation of the heart muscle), diabetes, family history of heart disease, obesity, congenital heart disease, irregular heartbeats, excess alcohol consumption and a diet high in salt.
She also noted that it is critically important to be aware of the classic symptoms of a heart attack, as well as the symptoms that may not be recognized immediately. Receiving treatment immediately can be lifesaving for people who suffer a heart attack.
The signs and symptoms of a heart attack in men and women include:
• Chest pain or pressure
• Shortness of breath
• Swelling in the legs and abdomen
• Sweating
• Pain spreading to the shoulders, neck arm or jaw
• Heart burn or indigestion, with or without nausea and vomiting
• Sudden dizziness or brief loss of consciousness
The symptoms more common in women are:
• Indigestion or gas-like pain
• Recurring chest discomfort
• Dizziness, nausea or vomiting
• Sense of impending doom
• Unexplained weakness or fatigue
• Discomfort or pain between the shoulder blades
If you think you could be having a heart attack, call 911. If you need cardiac care and have questions regarding services at Martin Memorial's Frances Langford Heart Center, please call our patient educator at (772) 221-2094.
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