Strong family ties are one of the greatest strengths of Hispanic and Latino communities. During Hispanic Heritage Month, families across the country celebrate traditions, culture and connections that span generations.
Protecting those connections is an important reason to take care of your heart. Staying healthy also helps ensure we can care for the loved ones, young and old, who depend on us every day.
Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the United States, but knowing the warning signs of heart attack, learning CPR and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help reduce your risk.
Many Hispanic and Latino families may face challenges that can make heart care harder to access. These include language differences and difficulty finding culturally responsive healthcare professionals.
High blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, tobacco use, poor sleep, limited physical activity and unhealthy eating patterns can all increase the risk of heart disease. Good heart health is also supported by access to trusted health information and regular preventive care; and by being prepared to seek immediate care in an emergency.
Know the warning signs of a heart attack
Knowing the warning signs of a heart attack or a cardiac arrest can help save lives. The faster someone receives medical attention, the greater their chance of survival and recovery.
You might think people always have dramatic chest pain and collapse during a heart attack. But signs and symptoms of a cardiac emergency can be more subtle, including:
- Chest discomfort, pressure or pain
- Shortness of breath
- Pain or discomfort in the arms, back, neck, jaw or stomach
- Nausea or vomiting
- Lightheadedness
- Unusual fatigue
- Cold sweats
Symptoms may not look the same for everyone. Women may also experience other, less common symptoms, such as anxiety or an upset stomach. They may also experience discomfort in the jaw, back or neck.
If you think you or someone else might be experiencing any signs of heart attack, don’t wait. Call 911 immediately. Fast treatment by emergency medical teams may help reduce heart damage and improve the chance of survival.
Learn CPR. Save a life.
Most cardiac emergencies happen at home, making family members and bystanders the first line of help before emergency responders arrive. CPR performed immediately can significantly improve a person’s chance of survival.
In a cardiac emergency, quick action can save a life. If someone collapses, is unresponsive and is not breathing normally, these simple actions can help the person until emergency medical services arrive.
- Call 911.
- Start CPR.
- Use an automated external defibrillator, or AED, if available.
The American Heart Association offers CPR information that can help you feel prepared to act with confidence in an emergency.
Maintain a healthy lifestyle
While recognizing emergencies and responding quickly are critical, everyday habits are important for long-term heart health. Small steps can make a big difference. They include:
- Eating better by reducing sodium, limiting added sugars and choosing healthier cooking methods. You can still enjoy your favorite recipes while being heart healthy. You don’t have to give up the foods and traditions that connect families and cultures.
- Adding more vegetables and fruits to meals and snacks throughout the day.
- Choosing lean proteins, especially plant-source options.
- Finding enjoyable ways to stay active, such as walking with family, friends or pets.
- Scheduling regular checkups to understand your blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar and overall cardiovascular risk.
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- Learning your family history and discussing it with your healthcare professional.
- Quitting tobacco.
- Making sleep a priority.
Families, schools, employers, faith communities, healthcare professionals and community organizations can all play a role in awareness and access to education, CPR and AED training, and emergency cardiovascular care.
This Hispanic Heritage Month, take one step toward better heart health. Schedule a checkup, learn CPR, talk with loved ones about family health history or encourage someone to call 911 at the first sign of a heart attack. Small actions today can help protect the people you love for years to come.
