Michele Anderson, Public Safety Communications Manager
Tuesday, February 6, 2018 at 12:31 p.m.
February is American Heart Month and the Spokane Fire Department wants the community to be “heart smart” and know the warning signals for heart attacks and strokes.
“Several types of heart disease are risk factors for stroke and stroke is a risk factor for coronary heart disease,” says Spokane Fire Chief Brian Schaeffer. “Knowing the warning signals can help when every second counts.”
The American Heart Association provides the following warning signals of heart attack and stroke:
Heart Attack Warning Signs:
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.
Stoke Warning Signs:
Spot a Stroke F.A.S.T:
It is important to remember that not all of these signs are necessary to identify every heart attack or stroke. If any of these signs occur, every second is critical—don’t wait, call 9-1-1 immediately.