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Heart & Vascular

Heart Library

According to the CDC, heart disease is the leading cause of death in the US. Almost 700,000 people die each year from heart disease, accounting for approximately 29 percent of all deaths in the US. This heart library contains a number of cardiovascular related tips, tools, videos, articles and more to help you better manage your heart health.

Heart Attack Signs

Minutes matter! If you experience any of the signs below, call 9-1-1 immediately. Calling 9-1-1 is the fastest way to get lifesaving treatment.

Chest Discomfort:		Pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain for more than a few minutes, or goes away and returns
Discomfort:		In one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw or stomach
Shortness of Breath:		With or without chest discomfort
Other Signs:		Cold sweat, nausea or lightheadedness

Learn More About Heart Attack Signs & Symptoms

You may experience mild symptoms, but it's important to act on them immediately by calling 9-1-1. For 50% of people experiencing mild symptoms, the heart attack can be prevented with early treatment before any damage to the heart occurs. Mild chest symptoms can also include pressure, burning, aching or tightness that may come and go until finally becoming constant and severe.

Valve Disease

Heart valve disease occurs when the heart valves do not work the way they should, either not allowing enough blood to move forward or letting blood leak back into the heart. Left untreated, heart valve disease can reduce the quality of life and become life-threatening.

You can have a problem valve for decades and not have any symptoms, or symptoms that come on so slowly you barely notice them. In other cases, you may be experiencing one or more of the following:

Excessive tiredness, especially as the day goes on
A fast, pounding or irregular heart beat
A fluttering feeling in your chest
Shortness of breath and/or difficulty catching your breath
Weakness or dizziness
Swollen ankles, feet or abdomen
Rapid weight gain

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, or are worried about heart valve disease, schedule an appointment with one of Washington Adventist Hospital’s experienced cardiac doctors.