COVID-19 has changed many aspects of our lives, but here is something that remains critically important: if you need medical care, don’t delay — get it when you need it. As a chief of cardiology at Ascension St. Vincent’s Riverside, I’ve seen patients who have waited until they are much sicker than normal to receive the heart care they need.
Unfortunately, when patients wait to get care, heart damage can increase. That’s why it’s crucial to know the signs of emergency cardiac events like heart attack and stroke.
The Essential Signs of Stroke
You know you’re having a stroke when your face, arm or leg grows weak and numb, especially on one side of the body. Other common effects are sudden confusion, trouble speaking, seeing or walking and headaches. When you suspect a stroke, remember the acronym F.A.S.T. That stands for face drooping, arm weakness, speech difficulty, time to call 911.
It’s also important to understand the risk factors associated with stroke, so you know if you or someone you love is susceptible. About three out of four people who have a stroke for the first time have high blood pressure. Atrial fibrillation — an irregular heart rhythm — is present in about one out of five strokes. In addition, diabetes can increase your risk of stroke, as can drinking, smoking and being overweight.
Don’t Ignore These Signs of Heart Attack
Heart attack (or myocardial infarction) symptoms may differ from stroke, but they are just as threatening to your health. Chest discomfort is the primary sign of heart attack, though it may present as more of a dull, heavy pressure. Additional symptoms include shortness of breath and aches in the arms, back, neck, jaw or stomach as well as other parts of the upper body. Other possible symptoms may include nausea, cold sweats and lightheadedness. It is important to remember that some heart attacks can present without chest pain as the main symptom, especially in women or the elderly.
It’s crucial to be aware of risk factors that make you more likely to have a heart attack. Smoking substantially increases your chances of heart attack. Advancing age along with other conditions like high cholesterol, high blood pressure, diabetes and obesity also are important risk factors for heart attack. Many of these risk factors can be controlled, which is why a prevention-oriented approach to your health is so important.
How Hospitals Are Keeping Patients Safe
Patients are justifiably worried about COVID-19 and its highly contagious delta variant. This variant is a critical threat to our lives, and it is critically important to get vaccinated, because people of all ages can become extremely ill and potentially die from this virus. Many people have returned to wearing masks and staying out of highly trafficked indoor spaces. However, stroke and heart attack victims must know that the most protected and appropriate place to receive care is still an emergency room. Hospitals are equipped to safely protect patients from potential exposure to COVID-19 while taking care of their emergent health concerns. All patients and staff are tested regularly. Separate intake and care areas, waiting room distancing, staff screening, ongoing use of personal protective equipment and extensive safety and sanitation protocols are in place to ensure all patients are cared for in a protected environment. The health system continuously monitors guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and adjusts safety practices and safeguards accordingly.
Signs You Need to Call 911
Don’t take any chances. Call 911 when you first suspect a heart attack, stroke or other heart emergency. Acting fast could save your life or a loved one’s. Don’t assume it’s “nothing.” Some heart attacks can happen suddenly, but do not ignore a more gradual onset of mild discomfort. Listen to your body and call 911 if you feel any discomfort in the chest or upper body, experience shortness of breath, break out in cold sweats, or have nausea or lightheadedness.
Don’t ignore the symptoms in fear of COVID-19 exposure. No patient should delay their care in an emergency. Trust that hospitals are the best place to receive adequate care and treatment while staying safe from COVID-19.
Dr. Anthony Magnano is a Ponte Vedra resident and chief of cardiology at Ascension St. Vincent’s Riverside. For more information on Dr. Magnano and his specialty treating atrial fibrillation, visit Healthcare.ascension.org.
