According to the Sudden Cardiac Arrest Foundation and those on the front lines in our Nation’s hospitals during the pandemic, the number of heart attacks and strokes a down. However, COVID-19 is not stopping people from having heart attacks, cardiac arrests or strokes. They just aren’t being seen and the results can be devastating.
The truth is many of us are hesitant to visit a hospital during the current outbreak. But if you are experiencing the standard symptoms of a heart attack or stroke, it’s imperative that you seek medical assistance immediately. This means visiting a hospital emergency room or calling 911.
A note from the Sudden Cardiac Arrest Foundation:
- It is SAFE for EVERYONE to call 911.
- It is SAFE for ANYONE to go to the hospital.
Our nation’s first responders are trained to help you safely and quickly, even during a pandemic.
Yes, COVID-19 is certainly our most immediate threat. But we must be aware and not forget the risks of heart disease and stroke which remain the top two killers worldwide. The following facts are still relevant.
- Approximately every 40 seconds someone in the US will have a heart attack and someone else will have a stroke.
- More than 350,000 out-of-hospital cardiac arrests occur in the U.S. annually.
Warning Signs of a Heart Attack
- chest discomfort;
- discomfort in other areas of the body such as your arms, back, neck, jaw or stomach;
- shortness of breath;
- other possible signs: breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea or lightheadedness
Symptoms of a Stroke
- Face drooping
- Arm weakness
- Speech slurring or other difficulty
If you are someone near you is experiencing these symptoms or suddenly falls unconscious, do not hesitate to call 911.
Source: Sudden Cardiac Arrest Foundation
