American Heart Month in Vancouver, WA

This Valentine’s Day, protect your heart so you can share the love.

According to the Cardiology Advisor, President Lyndon B. Johnson designated February as American Heart Month starting in 1964. He said that the heart and circulatory system were “responsible for over one-half the deaths occurring annually.” Now, cardiac arrest continues to be a leading cause of death all over the world. In the United States, more than 350,000 cardiac arrests occur outside of the hospital every year. 90% of these are fatal.

In honor of American Heart Month and Valentine’s Day, we’re sharing information about the signs of heart disease and different ways to keep your heart healthy.

What Is Heart Disease?

The term “heart disease” can refer to several conditions, including arteriosclerosis, atherosclerosis, angina, or a heart attack:

• Arteriosclerosis: Stiffness of the large arteries that causes high blood pressure. This condition is more common with age.
• Atherosclerosis: Buildup of plaque in the walls of the coronary arteries. If buildup occurs in the brain or leg arteries, this can increase the risk of stroke.
• Angina: Pain in the chest, neck, or left arm caused by plaque buildup that decreases blood flow to the heart.
• Heart Attack: Blood flow to the heart is blocked, preventing the heart from getting oxygen and nutrients.

What Are The Signs of Heart Disease?

Patients in the early stages of these diseases may not experience symptoms. However, since some block blood flow to the heart, it’s important to get treatment as soon as possible to prevent permanent damage. Here are some symptoms commonly associated with heart disease:

• Crushing chest pain
• Pressure in the center or left side of the chest
• Pain, numbness, and tingling in the shoulders, arms, neck, jaw, or back
• Fainting, lightheadedness, sudden dizziness
• Cold sweats
• Nausea, vomiting, stomach pain
• Fatigue
• Weakness
• Anxiety

Women may experience symptoms differently. They are more likely than men to experience shortness of breath, fatigue, weakness, stomach pain, anxiety, and shoulder/back/arm pain.

Where Can I Find Support in Vancouver?

Many factors can affect your heart, like whether you get enough exercise, sleep, and eat a healthy diet. It’s important to avoid alcohol and tobacco and manage stress. Managing all of this can be overwhelming, but you’re not alone. If you’re looking for ways to stay heart-healthy in our community, we’ve got you covered.

• The American Heart Association in Oregon & SW Washington works to improve our health and well-being while saving lives throughout the region. Keep an eye on their website for upcoming events and volunteer opportunities.
• PeaceHealth Southwest’s Heart & Vascular Center is one of the fastest hospitals treating heart attacks in Washington. They have a Non-Invasive Vascular Lab, a Center of Atrial Fibrillation Excellence, and a team of electrophysiologists and cardiologists.
• Peace NW, a 501(c)(3) Non-Profit Organization in Vancouver, is hosting Mall Walking for Heart Health Month throughout February. You can join them at the Vancouver Mall on Fridays at 9:30 a.m.

Can Griswold Home Care Services Help?

At Griswold, we’re here to support healthy habits. We provide non-medical in-home care in Vancouver and the surrounding areas, including Hazel Dell and Salmon Creek. Whether you’re a family member in need of respite care for a break or looking for 24-hour coverage for your loved one, give us a call. We’d be happy to create a personalized care plan for you today.