Heart Attacks Aren’t Cancelled, Call 911

Date:

(Heart Attacks)

Even during a pandemic, such as COVID-19, other emergencies don’t just go away. Heart attacks and strokes require immediate medical attention. The American Heart Association recommends that calling 911 and getting to the hospital quickly if you or a loved one are experiencing symptoms is your best chance for survival, and continues to be a safe option.

It is concerning that hospitals across the United States are reporting notably fewer patients admitted for strokes and heart attacks. Medical organizations fear that many people may not call 911 or go to the hospital because they are afraid of contracting COVID-19.

However, calling 911 is the best chance for survival if you experience a heart attack or stroke, the American Heart Association emphasizes.

First responders are trained to help patients with all emergency medical conditions, even in the current pandemic. Immediate treatment of a heart attack or stroke is essential, especially since data shows that individuals with cardiovascular disease are more likely to have serious complications from the virus – even death.

Leaders of medical organizations, including the American Heart Association, the Association of Black Cardiologists, the American Academy of Neurology, the American College of Emergency Physicians, the Heart Failure Society of America, the Heart Rhythm Society, and the Society for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions have issued a joint statement reminding all Americans, but especially those who are at increased risk for heart attack and stroke, such as those with cardiovascular disease, that it is safe for everyone to call 911, and that it is safe for anyone to go to the hospital.

Hospitals are following protocols to sanitize, maintain social distancing, and isolate COVID-19 patients from those in the hospital for other reasons including treatment for heart attack or stroke.

The American Heart Association and other medical organizations also advise individuals with existing cardiovascular conditions to use telehealth visits to continue managing risk factors and taking medications as prescribed.

Symptoms of a heart attack can include:

* Chest discomfort.

* Discomfort in other areas of the body, such as the arms, back, neck, jaw or stomach.

* Shortness of breath, as well as breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea, or lightheadedness.

Signs of stroke can include:

* Face drooping.

* Arm weakness.

* Slurred speech, or other sudden physical difficulties.

For information on COVID-19, heart health, and the signs of a heart attack, stroke, or cardiac arrest, visit heart.org.

Find your latest news here at the Hemet & San Jacinto Chronicle

Search: Heart Attacks

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here

Share post:

Subscribe to The Hemet & San Jacinto Chronicle

Popular

More like this
Related

Student Talent Takes Center Stage at San Bernardino County Honor Concerts

More than 650 student musicians from throughout San Bernardino County were selected to showcase their musical talents during three separate honor concerts

Writers Corner: Motivation

Brad from Rancho Cucamonga asks me to explain motivation. That may appear to be a dumb question, but it isn't. I've been asked that question a number of times.

$783K Awarded to Support Urban Agriculture and Farmers via Inland Empire Resource Conservation District

This week, the California Department of Food and Agriculture’s Office of Farm to Fork announced $11.67 million in funding awards through their Urban Agriculture Program focused on urban and disadvantaged communities throughout the state.

Clergy Corner: Better Than $150,000.00?

 The Boston Marathon! What an amazing race! Back when I was in high school and spending a fair amount of time running track, my dad told me if I would prepare for the Boston Marathon and meet the qualifying time, he would sponsor me.