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Heart Smart

Do you know the signs of a heart attack? Most people don't, even those with a history of heart disease according to a new article on AARP Bulletin Today. But being able to recognize these signs can lead to prompt treatment and increase the chances of survival. "Obviously, cardiac patients should know how to save their own lives by learning the symptoms and getting rapid treatment," says Robert A. Phillips, M.D., cardiologist and director of the Heart and Vascular Center of Excellence at the University of Massachusetts Medical Center. "They should also know that cardiac rehabilitation after an attack is as effective on reducing mortality as any surgery or medicine we can offer them. So my advice is, talk to your doctor and demand it."
So what should you look out for? Signs of cardiac trouble can include:
· nausea
· brief loss of consciousness
· pain in the jaw, chest or left arm
· shortness of brief
Like the good doctor said, talk to your physician! Talk to your friends, talk to your partner, talk to your neighbor and make sure they know the signs too. You've got the heart smarts, so share 'em!

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