Heart disease remains the leading cause of death for both men and women in the U.S. But there are resources to better heart health here with local healthcare providers, like the Medical Center of Dimmitt right here in Castro County.
As the nation focuses on the month of February as American Heart Month, now is a good time for consumers to take stock of their overall heart health and what they need to avoid risking a heart condition.
“We’re here to offer patients insight and answer questions about their condition whether it’s a blood pressure range they should set as a goal, make adjustments to diet, or understand the facts about something they read online,” said Elisha Rosier, R.N., B.S.N., CEO.
Go beyond knowing the warning signs of an imminent heart condition and take the time to understand how much you and your family are at risk. From there, make a plan and know the most important thing: Our team at the Medical Center of Dimmitt is ready to assist you, and we offer the resources you need.
Why Heart Health Still Matters
Heart disease doesn’t develop overnight.
High blood pressure, diet, high cholesterol, smoking, diabetes, physical inactivity, and stress all play a role. Many people live with these risk factors for years without symptoms, until a serious event occurs.
If one of these issues relate to you, consider a heart risk assessment at the Medical Center of Dimmitt. Our team will work with you to determine what steps need to be taken and whether a referral to a cardiologist is necessary. In many cases, clear guidance on slight changes to diet and activity like light exercise provide enough change to create in small increments to have massive results. You can trust that our providers are ready to guide you through any questions or concerns.
Through prevention and early recognition, taking heart health seriously is simple and does not always require medication. Taking steps to a healthy heart — before it becomes an emergency — is much easier than many think.
Heart Attack Symptoms in Men
Men are more likely to experience what many consider “classic” heart attack symptoms, including:
- Chest pain or pressure (often described as squeezing or fullness)
- Pain that spreads to the arm, shoulder, neck, or jaw
- Shortness of breath
- Cold sweat
- Nausea or lightheadedness
These symptoms are often sudden and intense, but they can also build gradually. Chest discomfort should never be ignored.
Heart Attack Symptoms in Women
Women may experience chest pain, but they are more likely than men to have subtler or less expected symptoms, such as:
- Shortness of breath without chest pain
- Unusual fatigue that comes on suddenly or lasts for days
- Nausea, vomiting, or indigestion-like discomfort
- Back, neck, jaw, or shoulder pain
- Lightheadedness or dizziness
Because these symptoms can be mistaken for stress, illness, or fatigue, women often delay seeking care. That delay can be dangerous.
When to Seek Emergency Care
If you or someone near you experiences symptoms that could signal a heart attack, call 911 immediately. Do not drive yourself to the hospital and do not wait to see if symptoms pass.
Early treatment significantly improves outcomes.
Steps You Can Take This Month
American Heart Month is a good time to reset or reinforce healthy habits:
- Schedule regular checkups to monitor blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar
- Move your body regularly, even in short daily increments
- Eat a heart-healthy diet focused on whole foods
- Quit smoking and limit alcohol
- Manage stress and prioritize sleep
- Know your family history
Small changes add up over time.
A Final Word
Heart disease doesn’t discriminate, but symptoms can differ. Understanding how heart attacks present in both men and women helps ensure faster care, better outcomes, and fewer lives lost.
This American Heart Month, take the initiative to schedule a consultation with your healthcare provider by calling 806-647-2194. Talk with your provider, learn the signs, and take proactive measures to safeguard your heart health.