The Heart and Stroke Foundation reports that although the rate of heart disease and stroke has declined by 25 per cent over the past 10 years, a large number of Canadians still die each year from heart-related diseases. Every seven minutes, someone dies from either a heart attack or stroke in Canada. They are still two of the three leading causes of death.
Each year, heart disease and stroke costs the Canadian economy over $22.2 billion in physician services, hospital costs, lost wages and decreased productivity, reports the Public Health Agency of Canada.
Symptoms of Strokes
There are five main warnings signs that may indicate you may be having a stroke, according to the Heart & Stroke Foundation.
- Weakness: Having a sudden loss of strength and/or numbness in your face, arms or legs
- Speech Problems: Difficulty in speaking and/or understanding; sudden confusion
- Vision Problems: Blurred vision
- Headache: Severe and unusual headaches
- Dizziness: Suddenly losing balance; especially if any of the other signs are present
Even if these symptoms are temporary they may indicate a possible stroke. The Heart & Stroke Foundation says to call 9-1-1 immediately.
Symptoms of Heart Attacks
Recognizing the symptoms of a possible heart attack may save a life. The Heart and Stroke Foundation reports that thousands of Canadians die each year from heart attacks, because they did not recognize the signs and get help right away.
Signs of heart attack:
- Pain: in chest, jaw, neck, shoulders, arm or back and does not go away. Can be a burning, squeezing, heaviness, tightness or pressure sensation
- Shortness of Breath: Hard time breathing
- Nausea: Indigestion and/or vomiting
- Sweating: Cool and clammy skin
- Fear: Anxiety or Denial
Call 9-1-1 immediately or get medical attention right away if you or someone you know is experiencing any of these symptoms. Symptoms may be vague and not very noticeable, but will have the same end result if not treated right away.
Causes of Heart Disease
Causes of heart disease may be genetic or self-induced, or a mixture of both. Self-induced causes of heart disease include:
- High blood pressure (hypertension)
- High blood cholesterol
- Diabetes
- Being overweight
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Physical inactivity
- Smoking
- Stress
You have control over these risk factors and can make changes to help prevent heart disease.
Genetic factors you have no control over include:
- Age
- Gender
- Family history of heart disease
- Ethnicity
- History of stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA)
Treating Heart Disease
If a heart attack or stroke is occurring, Health Canada has approved use of a drug called tPA. it is a clot-busting drug that can be used three hours from the time symptoms begin. Studies are also indicating it may be effective up to 4 1/2 hours afterwards. In either case, it will be the emergency doctor who will decide on the best course of action.
Depending on your actual type of heart disease, various medications exist to prevent life-threatening situations. Your heart condition may include angina, cholesterol, congestive heart failure, heart disease, high blood pressure or irregular heart rhythms.
Preventing Heart Disease
You can help to prevent heart disease by focusing on a healthier lifestyle.
- Diet: eat a healthier diet and reduce fats and cholesterol
- Exercise: start an exercise program to keep the heart healthy and lose extra weight
- Diabetes: keep your diabetes under control
- Blood pressure: keep your blood pressure normal either by using medication or reducing stress levels
- Smoking: stop smoking
- Alcohol: avoid or reduce alcohol consumption
- Stress: discover ways to control and manage the stress in your life
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be used for diagnosis or to guide treatment without the opinion of a health professional. Any reader who is concerned about his or her health should contact a doctor for advice.
References:
- Heart and Stroke Foundation. "Your Health" (accessed October 30, 2010)
- Public Health Agency of Canada. "2009 Tracking Heart Disease and Stroke in Canada." (accessed October 30, 2010)
Tamara Laschinsky - Health and wellness advocate, author, researcher and owner of Natural e GREEN: Natural Health & Wellness store!
Join the Conversation