Dameron is a certified cardiac
care hospital that is always
ready when you need us.
Dameron Hospital offers a
full-range of excellent cardiac
care services:
Your heart
is in good
hands
HEART PROBLEMS
Watch for the
warning signs
Cardiac
catheterization lab
For people who have
coronary artery disease,
doctors may use a procedure
called angioplasty to open
arteries narrowed or blocked
by plaque—a waxy substance
that can build up in artery
walls and reduce blood flow
to the heart. Angioplasty can
restore blood flow, which can
relieve a type of chest pain
called angina and also help
prevent a heart attack.
IF
you live with angina or heart failure or if you’re recovering from heart surgery, it pays
to be cautious. No matter how good you feel now, it’s important to recognize potential
problems as they arise.
Contact your doctor right away if you have any of the symptoms listed below—they
could mean your condition is getting worse or that you’re at high risk for a heart attack.
Angina.
Changes in the pattern of your
angina could spell trouble. Watch out for
pain that is longer-lasting or more frequent
or severe than usual. Report pain that
occurs without exertion and that doesn’t
go away with rest or medicine.
Heart failure.
If symptoms that were once
controlled return or you suddenly have a
new symptom, it’s time to call your doctor.
Warning signs include:
▸
▸
Sudden weight gain. Ask your doctor
how often to weigh yourself and when
to report weight changes.
▸
▸
Shortness of breath not related to
exercise or exertion.
▸
▸
More-than-usual leg or ankle swelling.
▸
▸
Swelling or pain in the abdomen.
▸
▸
Trouble sleeping or shortness of breath
when you wake up.
▸
▸
A frequent, dry, hacking cough.
▸
▸
Increased fatigue or constant tiredness.
▸
▸
Chest pain.
After heart surgery.
Call a doctor
promptly if you:
▸
▸
Have trouble breathing or have chest
pain, weakness or an irregular heartbeat.
▸
▸
Feel down or have the blues for more
than a few days.
▸
▸
Notice side effects after starting a new
heart medication.
Tell your doctor about any new
prescription you’ve been given for a
condition other than heart disease. Your
doctor can tell you whether it’s safe to take
with your heart medicine.
Sources: American Heart Association; National Heart,
Lung, and Blood Institute
6
HEALTH OUTLOOK