This news item expired on Friday, February 28, 2014 so the information below could be outdated or incorrect.
Buncombe County encourages you to learn the symptoms of a heart attack and call 9-1-1 if you experience any of the warning signs:
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Chest discomfort - pressure, squeezing, fullness, burning or pain
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Pain or discomfort* - in one or both arms, back, neck, jaw or stomach
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Shortness of breath* - with or without chest discomfort
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Other symptoms* - cold sweat, nausea/vomiting or lightheadedness
*Common symptoms experienced by women
Women should take charge of their health by knowing their heart disease risk and being aware of the signs and symptoms of a heart attack. Heart disease continues to be the leading cause of death for women in North Carolina. According to the N.C. State Center for Health Statistics, heart disease takes the lives of over 8,000 North Carolina women each year.
Did you know that North Carolina ranks 18th highest in the nation for heart disease deaths and is considered to be the 6th worst state for its stroke mortality rate?
Many women’s lives are cut short because they don’t know their risk for a heart attack or stroke. February is American Heart Month, so take some time to watch Buncombe Life and learn more about your heart.
Buncombe County offers free cardiovascular screenings, education and referral services to eligible women through the NC WISEWOMAN Project. To learn more about the NC WISEWOMAN Project call 250-6006.