Many moms ignore warning signs of heart attack and stroke

Women often don't recognize the signs and symptoms of cardiovascular disease and are less likely to believe they are having a heart attack or stroke, experts say.

This Mother's Day, why not arm the woman you love with information that could save her life by sharing with her the warning signs. First and foremost says the Heart and Stroke Foundation:


• Women should call 911 or their local emergency number immediately if symptoms arise.

• Signs of a heart attack are one, or more of: chest discomfort (uncomfortable chest pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain, burning or heaviness); discomfort in other areas of the upper body (neck, jaw, shoulder, arms, back); shortness of breath; sweating; nausea; light-headedness.

• Signs of a stroke are one or more of sudden: weakness, numbness, loss of muscle strength in face, arm or leg; trouble speaking or understanding speech; vision problems; severe headache; dizziness.

Your mother can take action now to make health last with three easy steps:

1) Assess her risk for heart disease and stroke.

2) Talk to her doctor about her risk.

3) Commit to one small lifestyle change every day to see big gains in heart health.

Encourage your mother to assess her risk, download questions for her doctor, and review tips on increasing physical activity, eating right, staying smoke-free and managing stress. Comprehensive resources are available at thehearttruth.ca.

www.newscanada.com