Warning Signs of Heart Attack and Stroke

Heart Attack Warning Signs

Heart disease is the number one cause of death in the United States. Each year, approximately 1.2 million Americans suffer a heart attack, and nearly one-third of these individuals die, many before they reach the hospital. People often dismiss heart attack warning signs and wait too long before getting help. We want you to recognize the early symptoms of a heart attack.

Frequent signs of a heart attack include:

• Chest discomfort. Most heart attacks involve discomfort in the center of the chest. The discomfort lasts for more than a few minutes, or it may go away and come back. The discomfort may feel like pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain.
• Discomfort in other areas of the upper body. This may include pain or discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw or stomach.
• Shortness of breath may occur with or before chest discomfort.
• Other symptoms may include breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea or light-headedness.

Stroke Warning Signs

Olathe Medical Center is a Certified Primary Stroke Center. We make sure our stroke patients receive high-quality care from a specialized team - as soon as possible. Because when stroke symptoms appear, the sooner you get help the greater your chance of reducing long-term disability.
With advanced certification from The Joint Commission, Olathe Medical Center provides the next generation of stroke care.

If you suspect a stroke, act F.A.S.T.

Face: Ask the person to smile. Does one side of the face droop?
Arms: Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?
Speech: Ask the person to repeat a simple phrase. Is his or her speech slurred or strange?
Time: If you observe any of these signs,call 9-1-1 immediately.