Signs of Heart Disease or Heart Attack
Who Shows Signs of Heart Problems?
In many cases, signs of heart complications such as distress and heart attacks are difficult to see. In addition to maintaining health, it's important to keep stress levels at a manageable level. It’s often the adult children who step in to help when parents or loved one’s need attention. While having loved ones around for both assistance and emotional support can be comforting for seniors, health risks in a care giving role must also be acknowledged. Both the caregiver and elderly care recipient are at increased risk of heart distress.
We can be there for your loved one.
Symptoms of Heart Distress
If you are the primary caregiver for someone in your family, here are some symptoms to look for in yourself along with your elderly care recipient:
- Tight chest pain in the center of the chest
- Upper body pain
- Indigestion
- Shortness of breath
- Cold sweats
- Vomiting or nausea
- Dizziness or light-headedness
- Increased heart rate with no cause
Hidden Heart Attack Symptoms
There are several commonly overlooked symptoms women report during a heart attack. These symptoms may include pressure or tightness in the shoulders, neck and jaw. Instead of pressure or tightness, the pain is sometimes described as burning, tingling or fullness in those areas as well. Sleep disturbances and unusual fatigue in the days or weeks leading up to a heart attack are also common.
Risks of Heart Distress
Certain factors may put you or your loved one at higher risk for heart distress. High cholesterol is a huge risk factor, so it is important to watch what you eat and limit foods high in animal fats. Smoking cigarettes can cause blood pressure to skyrocket and contribute to other health conditions, including deteriorating heart health. Obesity is a risk factor, so controlling weight and exercising regularly is important. Stress is also a contributing factor, so taking time out to relax and breathe will help your overall health and may just save your life.
Symptoms: Reaction Time Is Crucial
If heart distress symptoms continue for five minutes or more, it is very important to contact emergency assistance. Call 9-1-1 if you notice these symptoms and get the appropriate help. It is important for you to take care of yourself as well as your loved one.
ComForCare Assistance
Having assistance from a professional caregiver can ease your stress, improve your health as well as providing optimal care. ComForCare caregivers have extensive training in many conditions affecting the elderly. We can help take care of your loved one, so you can take care of yourself.
(800) 886-4044