| Your Heart’s Silent SOS: Are You Listening? | Dear e-Alert Reader,
Cardiac arrest is one of the deadliest health emergencies you can experience. According to new research, more than 75% of people who suffer a cardiac arrest in the emergency room won’t survive.
That’s a frightening number—especially when we’re talking about life-and-death moments.
This latest study highlights something we’ve been concerned about for years: heart disease is a killer that affects millions, and too often, we fail to recognize the early warning signs.
If you or someone you love could be at risk, knowing how to spot the signs of a heart attack before it escalates is crucial to improving your chances of survival.
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The Grim Statistics
The study analyzed 1.4 million emergency department visits where patients experienced cardiac arrest or required cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). Out of those patients, over half died in the ER itself.
And when combined with inpatient mortality, the numbers skyrocketed to 75.4% in 2020. What’s even more concerning is that these numbers have been steadily increasing over the past few years.
For those aged 50 and older, the risk of cardiac arrest and mortality is higher. That’s why it’s critical for people in this age group to monitor their heart health closely.
Don’t Wait for an Emergency: Know the Signs
Before we get to the ER, there are often warning signs—your body might be sending signals that something isn’t right. By recognizing these early signs, you can prevent a heart attack before it spirals into a full-blown cardiac arrest.
Here are the key signs to watch for:Chest Pain or Discomfort: This is the most common symptom, but it can vary in intensity. Some people describe it as a squeezing sensation, while others experience a dull ache. If you feel pressure in your chest that doesn’t go away, don’t ignore it.Shortness of Breath: If you’re struggling to catch your breath, especially when resting or lying down, that could be an early warning sign.Fatigue: Unexplained, extreme tiredness could be a sign that your heart is struggling to pump blood.Dizziness or Lightheadedness: Feeling faint or dizzy can indicate an issue with your blood flow, and could signal a heart problem.Pain in the Arms, Neck, or Jaw: Many people don’t realize that heart attacks don’t always cause chest pain. Pain can radiate to other parts of the body, such as the arms, neck, or jaw. If you feel this kind of discomfort, especially if it’s accompanied by other symptoms, it’s worth getting checked out.Take Control of Your Heart Health
Now that we know the alarming statistics about cardiac arrest outcomes, it’s more important than ever to take proactive steps to protect your heart.
Here’s how you can get ahead of heart disease:Monitor Blood Pressure: High blood pressure is a leading cause of heart disease. Regular check-ups and home monitoring can help you keep track of your levels.Exercise Regularly: Movement is key. Even a brisk 30-minute walk each day can significantly reduce your risk of heart disease.Eat Heart-Healthy Foods: Incorporating foods rich in omega-3s, antioxidants, and healthy fats—like fish, nuts, and olive oil—can help reduce inflammation and support heart health.Manage Stress: Chronic stress puts strain on your heart. Finding ways to reduce stress—like meditation, yoga, or even just taking time for hobbies you enjoy—can do wonders for your heart health.Quit Smoking: Smoking is a major risk factor for heart disease. If you smoke, seeking help to quit could be one of the most important things you do for your heart.The takeaway from this new data is clear: don’t wait for an emergency. By staying informed, recognizing the early warning signs, and prioritizing your heart health, you can reduce your risk of becoming another statistic.
Your heart is too important to leave to chance. Start today by taking small steps that could save your life tomorrow.
To healthy hearts,
Rachel Mace
Managing Editorial Director, e-Alert
with contributions from the research team
Sources:
Edited by Geet Asnani. (2024, October 24). Disparities in Cardiac Arrest Outcomes in Emergency Departments Across the United States. Medscape. https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/disparities-cardiac-arrest-outcomes-emergency-departments-2024a1000jdh
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