Survive, don’t drive

Think it might be a heart attack?

If you think you’re having heart attack symptoms, don’t reach for the keys, reach for the phone instead. “We want people to call 9-1-1 and get emergency treatment immediately,” said Loraine Cusumano, director of Cardiovascular Services at McLaren Macomb in Mount Clemens.

“The EMS experts will come to you with the most advanced equipment to start treatment immediately if you are having a heart attack.”

EMS units in Macomb County are equipped with technology to perform electrocardiography (ECG) testing in the ambulance units, she said. These readings are transmitted directly to the hospital’s emergency department and the Mat Gaberty Heart Center.

Is it a stroke?

See if you can spot one F.A.S.T.

Ask someone if they know the warning signs of a heart attack. Chances are, that person may be able to name at least one. The symptoms of a stroke, however, are less familiar.

The American Heart Association (AHA) offers an easy reminder to help us determine if someone is having a stroke. Using letters for the word “FAST” can help us remember what to look for:

• F. Face Drooping: Ask the person to smile. Does one side of the face droop or is it numb?
• A. Arm Weakness: Is one arm weak or numb? Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?
• S. Speech Difficulty: Is the person’s speech slurred? Are they unable to speak? Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence, such as “the sky is blue.” Is it repeated correctly?
• T. Time for help: If the person shows any of these symptoms, even if the symptoms go away, call 911 immediately to get them to the hospital.

Can stress cause a heart attack?

Health experts aren’t completely certain, but research shows that uncontrolled stress can have long-term effects on your health – and your heart.

Chronic stress forces the body to remain in “high gear” for too long. That takes a toll on your energy level and your immune system, which needs rest and relaxation to recharge and keep your body healthy.

Is it a heart attack?

Warning signs vary for men and women

It doesn’t always happen like you may think. A heart attack can sneak up without the classic symptoms.

While people often expect pain in the left arm or crushing tightness in the chest, there are other warning signs that something may be wrong.