It's Been Awhile!

It's Been Awhile!

Amazing how you get started on something, get side tracked, and,... you know.

It has been 6 1/2 years since my open heart surgery!  And, in that time:

Both of my sons were married!

My wife & I have 3 grandchildren & another due in September!

I had my 40th & 45th high school reunion.

My wife & I celebrated our 40th wedding anniversary!

I had a "hole-in-one"!

And, my Green Bay Packers won a Super Bowl!

Yes, I would have missed this!!  ALL THIS!!

So, FIRST!  If you do not feel well, in anyway, SEE YOUR DOCTOR!

Warning signs of heart issues?

1. Chest Discomfort. It’s the most common sign of heart danger. If you have a blocked artery or are having a heart attack, you may feel pain, tightness, or pressure in your chest. “Everyone has a different word for that feeling,” Chambers says. “Some people say it’s like an elephant is sitting on them. Other people say it’s like a pinching or burning.”

2. Nausea, Indigestion, Heartburn, or Stomach Pain. Some people have these symptoms during a heart attack. They may even vomit, Chambers says. Women are more likely to report this type of symptom than men are. Of course, you can have an upset stomach for many reasons that have nothing to do with your heart. It could just be something you ate, after all. But you need to be aware that it can also happen during a heart attack.

3. Pain that Spreads to the Arm. Another classic heart attack symptom is pain that radiates down the left side of the body. “It almost always starts from the chest and moves outward,” Chambers says. “But I have had some patients who have mainly arm pain that turned out to be heart attacks.”

4. You Feel Dizzy or Lightheaded. A lot of things can make you lose your balance or feel faint for a moment. Maybe you didn’t have enough to eat or drink, or you stood up too fast. But if you suddenly feel unsteady and you also have chest discomfort or shortness of breath, call a doctor right away.

5. Throat or Jaw Pain. By itself, throat or jaw pain probably isn’t heart related. More likely, it’s caused by a muscular issue, a cold, or a sinus problem.

So, take control of your health!  And, see your doctors regularly, especially after age 50!