The Federation of Lutheran Churches
of Cincinnati and Vicinity (LCMS)


Parish Nurse Program
Heart Health  

Heart disease and stroke kill one in every 3.7 men, and one in every 2.4 women. It is the nation’s number one killer. 

Heart Attack, Stroke and Cardiac Arrest Warning Signs

(from the American Heart Association)

Quick Links:
Heart Attack Warning Signs
Stroke Warning Signs
Cardiac Arrest Warning Signs

Heart Attack Warning Signs
Some heart attacks are sudden and intense — the "movie heart attack," where no one doubts what's happening. But most heart attacks start slowly, with mild pain or discomfort. Often people affected aren't sure what's wrong and wait too long before getting help. Here are signs that can mean a heart attack is happening: 

  • Chest discomfort. Most heart attacks involve discomfort in the center of the chest that lasts more than a few minutes, or that goes away and comes back. It can feel like uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain.   
  • Discomfort in other areas of the upper body. Symptoms can include pain or discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw or stomach. 
  • Shortness of breath with or without chest discomfort.  
  • Other signs may include breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea or lightheadedness    
As with men, women's most common heart attack symptom is chest pain or discomfort. But women are somewhat more likely than men to experience some of the other common symptoms, particularly shortness of breath, nausea/vomiting, and back or jaw pain.

Learn the signs, but remember this: Even if you're not sure it's a heart attack, have it checked out (tell a doctor about your symptoms). Minutes matter! Fast action can save lives — maybe your own. Don’t wait more than five minutes to call 9-1-1 or your emergency response number.

Ten Commandments for a Healthy Heart
(adapted from the Faith-Based Toolkit from The Heart Truth campaign. 

1. Know your risk factors for heart disease.
2. Talk to your doctor about reducing your risk of heart disease.
3. Have your blood pressure checked regularly.
4. Know your cholesterol numbers. (These include total cholesterol, HDL or “good cholesterol, LDL or “bad” cholesterol, and triglycerides.) 
5. Have your blood sugar level checked for diabetes.
6. Do not smoke cigarettes or use other tobacco products.
7. Eat for your heart health. 
8. Get regular physical activity (At least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity on most or all days of the week.)
9. Aim for a healthy weight.
10. Know the signs and symptoms of a heart attack and the importance of seeking medical heap immediately.

Risk factors for Heart Disease

1. High blood pressure
2. High cholesterol
3. Diabetes
4. Smoking
5. Being overweight
6. Being physically inactive
7. Having a family history of early heart disease
8. Age (55 or older for women)

Having just one risk factor increases your chance of developing heart disease. Your risk skyrockets with each added risk factor. 

God has given us the job of keeping ourselves healthy.  Take time to care for yourself. We all have the power to prevent or control heart disease. 

Links: 
www.hearttruth.gov
®, ™ The Heart Truth, its logo, The Red Dress, and Heart Disease Doesn't Care What You Wear—It's the #1 Killer of Women, are trademarks of HHS. 
®National Wear Red Day is a registered trademark of HHS and AHA.
updated July 2010