Heart attack, stroke signs should not be ignored

ThedaCare recommends immediate action, even during pandemic

APPLETON — Health systems nationwide are urging people to seek medical care if they experience signs of a heart attack or stroke.

“Our teams are ready to provide lifesaving interventions for patients,” said Dr. Simone Fearon, medical director and physician leader with ThedaCare Cardiovascular Care. “That does not change as we are responding to COVID-19. We do not want people to delay heart care over fears of the virus.”

Multiple reports across the nation have cited a significant reduction in admissions for heart attacks during the pandemic. Many experts link the decline in the volume of heart attack and stroke patients to the fear people may have of coming into a hospital at this time.

Changes to ensure safety include screeners who will greet patients at the door upon arriving at the hospital. Once there, they will be asked for a temperature check and to wear a mask – for their safety and the safety of others.

Fearon said people with heart attack or stroke symptoms could be hurting rather than helping themselves by delaying emergency care during this pandemic.

“If a patient delays emergency interventions, the risks for long-term mechanical complications such as weak heart muscle, abnormal heart rhythms and severe valve problems increase,” said Fearon. “Avoiding a 911 call or going to the emergency department can potentially translate into more serious health consequences.”

Fearon advised people to take note of the warning signs from the American Heart Association and seek medical attention immediately if they are experiencing any symptoms.

Signs of a heart attack include chest discomfort, mostly in the center of the chest; discomfort in other areas of the upper body, mainly in the arms, or the back, neck, jaw or stomach; shortness of breath, often accompanying chest discomfort; and other signs that include cold sweats, nausea, fatigue or lightheadedness.

Stroke signs include sudden numbness or weakness in the face, arm or leg, especially on one side of the body; sudden disorientation, confusion, trouble speaking or understanding; sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes; sudden, sever headaches; and other difficulties, such as sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination.

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