“I firmly believe that any man’s finest hour, the great fulfillment of all that he holds dear, is that moment when he has worked his heart out in a good cause and lies exhausted on the field of battle, victorious.” — Vince Lombardi
This quote from former Green Bay Packers coach Vince Lombardi seems particularly appropriate as we near Super Bowl LIX — and American Heart Month.
Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States and worldwide. But there are plenty of steps people can take to lower their risk — and plenty of resources for those looking to learn more.
What to know
Many might not realize that cardiac arrest and a heart attack are not the same thing.
A heart attack is a circulation problem that occurs when blood flow to the heart is blocked. Symptoms might include intense discomfort in the chest or other upper-body areas, shortness of breath, cold sweats and/or nausea and vomiting. Symptoms might come on quickly, but they are more likely to start slowly and continue for hours, days or weeks.
Even if there is uncertainty whether a heart attack is occurring, call 911 immediately. EMTs can begin treatment immediately and transport the patient quickly to the hospital.
A heart attack is a common cause of cardiac arrest, but most heart attacks do not lead to cardiac arrest. Cardiac arrest occurs when the heart malfunctions and stops beating unexpectedly. Breathing stops and the person becomes unconscious.
If CPR is provided immediately, a person’s chance of surviving cardiac arrest can be doubled or tripled, according to the American Heart Association. After calling 911, start CPR right away. If an automated external defibrillator is available, use it as soon as possible.
What to do
The National Heart, Lung and Blood institute offers the following suggestions to help avoid cardiovascular disease or help someone who is suffering from cardiac arrest.
• Get enough quality sleep
Adults who don’t sleep enough or sleep poorly have an increased risk of high blood pressure, heart disease and other medical conditions. Aim for seven to nine hours a night.
• Eat better
A flexible and balanced eating plan, like the D.A.S.H. diet, can help lower high blood pressure and improve cholesterol.
• Maintain a healthy weight
Many diseases and conditions can be prevented or controlled by having a healthy weight.
• Be more active
The right amount of physical activity can help lower the risk of heart disease and stroke. Adults should spend 2.5 hours each week doing physical activity
• Stop smoking
Any amount of smoking — even light or occasional — damages heart and blood vessels. Visit http://www.smokefree.gov for additional support.
• Manage stress
Meditation, yoga, a warm bath, quiet time with a good book and a funny movie can all help lower stress.
• Get trained in CPR
Members of the Hinsdale Fire Department will teach Heart Saver CPR/AED classed from 8 a.m. to noon Saturday, Feb. 15, at the fire department, 121 Symonds Drive. People with little to no medical training will learn how to perform CPR, use an AED and provide first aid. Upon completion, participants will receive an American Heart Association certificate. Additional classes will be offered at the same time and place on March 8, April 12 and May 10.
