Stopping a Heart Attack in its Tracks

Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi’s ‘Know Your Heart’ Campaign Sheds Light on the Importance of Recognizing Symptoms

Heart disease is the UAE’s leading cause of death, with heart attacks striking around 15 years earlier than the global average, according to the World Health Organization.

However, in many cases these fatalities can be prevented. By recognizing the symptoms of heart attacks early, people can be treated before their heart experiences further damage, saving patients’ lives.

A new campaign from Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, ‘Know Your Heart’, aims to educate people about the key signs of a heart attack, as part of a wider effort to reduce the risks of cardiovascular disease. The campaign is running throughout September ahead of World Heart Day on September 29.

“Knowing the symptoms associated with heart attacks and paying close attention to your body is crucial and can save your life. Individuals should not ignore any signs or changes to their body and should seek immediate help if they experience one or more symptoms of a heart attack”, said Dr. Jacques W. Kobersy, Institute Chair of Emergency Medicine at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi’s Emergency Medicine Institute.

Typical symptoms of heart attacks vary from person to person and by gender. The most common symptoms include chest pain or pressure that lasts longer than a few minutes, discomfort in the arms, shoulders, neck or jaw due to limited blood flow, as well as fatigue, shortness of breath and nausea.

It is possible for patients, and particularly women and diabetics, to have a heart attack and not feel the typical chest pain. In some cases, the symptoms can be as subtle as shortness of breath, dizziness, upper back pressure or extreme fatigue.

Dr. Kobersy advises people who suffer any of the symptoms associated with a heart attack to call an ambulance and rest until they are assisted. Patients should remain seated until they receive help, as any movement can increase strain on the heart.

Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi offers round-the-clock care and treatment services to individuals who require immediate attention at their Emergency Department. The hospital has been designated as the official Chest Pain Center and a Stroke Center for Abu Dhabi by the Department of Health.

Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi’s Heart, Vascular & Thoracic Instituteoffers comprehensive and cutting-edge treatment options. In the United States, Cleveland Clinic has been named as the No. 1 hospital for cardiology and heart surgery by U.S. News & World Report for 24 successive years.