Heart Health Takes Center Stage in February

IU Health LaPorte Hospital and IU Health Starke Hospital are urging you to listen to your heart and educate yourself during American Heart Month.

The American Heart Association says many heart attacks occur suddenly and many of warning signs start slowly with mild pain or discomfort. Common symptoms include chest pain or discomfort lasting more than a few minutes; discomfort in other areas of the upper body such as one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw or stomach; shortness of breath and breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea or lightheadedness.

Women experience slightly different heart attack warning signs. Many women report pain in the lower chest or abdomen, dizziness or fainting, upper back pressure or extreme fatigue.

Early detection is key to great cardiovascular health. The American Heart Association recommends a baseline screening as early as 20.

The Heart Cart will have a scheduled stop at the Golden Living Center in LaPorte tomorrow from 7:30-11:30 a.m. CT. Discounted screening packages will be offered to all residents. Several other Heart Cart screenings will be scheduled throughout this month. It will arrive in Knox on March 7 at IU Health Starke Hospital from 7:30-11:30 a.m. Reregistration is required, call (219) 326-2626.