Merryann Werley, RN

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Dear family and friends,

              As we begin our Lenten journey, I hope you will experience God’s heart healing peace. In addition to Lent and Valentine’s Day, February is American Heart Month. Heart disease continues to be a primary cause of death and disability in our country. Heart attacks are still the leading cause of death in the United States.

What is a heart attack?

A heart attack refers to an interruption in the blood supply to the heart which is so severe that some of the muscle dies. Heart attacks are usually caused by a blood clot in a heart artery. The blood clot attaches to deposits of cholesterol in the artery and blocks the blood flow to the heart muscle.

What are the symptoms of a heart attack?

Heart attacks can cause a variety of symptoms but the following are the ones most commonly associated with heart attacks.

Uncomfortable pressure, fullness, squeezing, or pain in the center of the chest (it may spread to the arms, shoulder, neck, or back which lasts for a few minutes

Lightheadedeness, weakness, or fainting

Sweating, nausea,  or shortness of breath

A person having a heart attack may not have all of the symptoms but if you experience any of them, you should consider the possibility of a heart attack.

What should you do?

If you have any of the symptoms for more than a few minutes, you should call 911 immediately. Discuss with your doctor the various treatment options if you are having a heart attack. You can learn about heart disease (see your parish nurse, doctor, American Heart Association website, or brochures). You can learn CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) so that you can help save a life.

If you have any questions or concerns, please let me know.

Blessings,
Merryann Werley

Parish nurse

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Last modified: 01/29/10