Understanding heart disease: Risk factors, warning signs and expert care at The Heart Hospital at St. Joseph’s/Candler
At The Heart Hospital at St. Joseph’s/Candler, we understand that heart disease can affect anyone, and we are here to provide comprehensive cardiovascular care. With board-certified specialists and advanced technology, we are prepared to diagnose and treat a wide range of cardiovascular conditions. As the first hospital in the region to receive full accreditation as a Chest Pain Center from the Society of Cardiovascular Patient Care, our experts offer high-quality care and guidance in cardiovascular health.
Heart Disease: An overview of causes, symptoms and risk factors
Heart disease is one of the leading causes of death in men and women, but many are unaware of the subtle signs and diverse symptoms it can present. Classic symptoms include chest pain or pressure, yet heart disease can also manifest in less typical ways, such as pain in the back, shoulder or stomach, along with symptoms like fatigue, anxiety or cold sweats. These subtler signs can often lead to delays in seeking care, especially in women, who frequently experience heart disease later in life and whose symptoms may be masked by other health issues such as arthritis or osteoporosis.
Risk factors you can control
Several factors increase the likelihood of developing heart disease, but many are within your control:
- Quitting Smoking: If you smoke, quitting can significantly reduce your risk.
- Managing Cholesterol: A healthy diet, regular exercise, and, if necessary, medication can help keep cholesterol levels in check.
- Controlling Blood Pressure: Maintain healthy blood pressure through diet, exercise, and medication as prescribed.
- Managing Diabetes: Control blood sugar with diet, physical activity,= and medication if needed.
- Regular Exercise: Aim for at least 30 minutes of physical activity daily.
- Maintaining a Healthy Weight: Eating nutritious foods, limiting portions and joining weight management programs can support a healthy weight.
- Reducing Alcohol Intake: Limit alcohol to 1 drink per day for women and 2 per day for men.
- Managing Stress: Find healthy coping mechanisms, such as yoga, meditation, or special stress management programs.
Recognizing heart attack symptoms: Classic and atypical signs
Classic Warning Signs of a Heart Attack
- Uncomfortable pressure, fullness, squeezing, or pain in the center of the chest lasting more than a few minutes
- Pain that spreads to shoulders, neck, or arms
- Chest discomfort coupled with lightheadedness, fainting, sweating, nausea, or shortness of breath
Atypical or unusual symptoms
- Pain in the back, jaw, neck, stomach, or abdomen
- Dizziness, nausea, or vomiting, especially when combined with other symptoms
- Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
- Unexplained anxiety, weakness, or fatigue, especially alongside classic symptoms
- Palpitations, cold sweats, or paleness with classic symptoms
If you or someone you know experiences these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.
Education and prevention: Heart disease prevention programs and rehabilitation
At The Heart Hospital at St. Joseph’s/Candler, we believe in proactive prevention and management to help our patients achieve long-term cardiovascular health. Our programs include community screenings, cardiac and pulmonary rehabilitation, and educational workshops. Our certified rehabilitation support is designed to help patients maintain heart, vascular, and lung health, with advanced prevention and wellness resources.
Cardiac and pulmonary rehabilitation for long-term success
Our specially trained rehabilitation team provides essential support to both cardiac and pulmonary patients, beginning during their hospital stay and continuing at our dedicated outpatient facility. Accredited by the American Heart Association, our rehabilitation program combines education, exercise, and counseling to help patients improve their heart and lung health and overall quality of life.