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According to recent American Health Association statistics, approximately 785,000 Americans suffer from their first heart attack each year. Another 470,000 have a second or recurrent heart attack. A heart attack occurs when the blood supply to the heart is severely decreased or cut off. This most often occurs when the arteries that supply the heart become blocked. Blockages are often due to buildups of fat and cholesterol that bond together to form what is known as plaque. The heart is a muscle, and when the cells of the heart do not receive enough blood and oxygen, they begin to die. A heart attack is life threatening, but if caught early your chances of a positive outcome improve dramatically. The sooner that blood flow is restored to the heart the greater the chances of recovery. At Home Care Assistance Washington DC, we believe it is important for seniors and their families to familiarize themselves with the common warning signs of a heart attack so proper care and attention can be provided. Knowing what to do in such a situation could be the difference between life and death. Most commonly, heart attacks include discomfort or pressure in the center of the chest. This feeling may go away and then come back or it may last more than a few minutes. The discomfort often feels like pain, fullness in the chest or a squeezing sensation. For others, a heart attack may result in pain or discomfort in other areas of the body. You may experience discomfort in your arms, back, jaw or neck. Other, less recognizable signs may include shortness of breath, nausea, becoming faint or light headed, or breaking out in a cold sweat. Occasionally, symptoms of a heart attack will come on suddenly. But, most often, heart attacks do not look like the heart attacks you see in movies. Many heart attacks develop slowly causing people to question what is happening to them. Because they are not aware of the symptoms, they often wait too long before seeking medical attention. Knowing the signs and symptoms of a heart attack is critical. If you are a Washington DC caregiver and assist an elderly parent or loved one at home, it is important to familiarize yourself with the warning signs of a heart attack so you can help them in case of an emergency. If your loved one shows any signs of a heart attack, dial 9-1-1 or transport them to the hospital immediately. Your ability to make a decision quickly and calmly in this situation could be the difference between life and death. For adult children who are concerned about the health and safety of an elderly parent or loved one and are unable to provide care or support on an around the clock basis, consider help through live-in care in Washington DC. With a reliable and compassionate live-in caregiver, you can rest assured that your loved one is in professional hands and will be cared for in an emergency.
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Home Care Washington DC, Elder Care Washington DC, Senior Care Washington DC, Live in Care Washington DC, Hourly Care Washington DC, at home care Wash,
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