Every year about 610,000 people die of heart disease in the United States. It is the leading cause of death for both men and women. February is American Heart Month, a national effort sponsored by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Million Hearts to prevent one million heart attacks and strokes in the United States by 2017.
It’s no secret that long-haul truck drivers face many health concerns due to their work lifestyles. A recent study published in the American Journal of Industrial Medicine revealed that over two-thirds of truck drivers were obese. Obesity increases the chances of developing type 2 diabetes, sleep apnea, heart disease, and cancer among other chronic diseases. Additionally, over half of drivers smoke cigarettes, which again increases your chances of developing chronic diseases.
The leading cause of heart disease and stroke in the US is uncontrolled high blood pressure. Over 67 million Americans live with high blood pressure. You are four times more likely to die from a stroke and three times more likely to die from heart disease if you have high blood pressure.
Most people show no symptoms of high blood pressure so it’s important to have your blood pressure checked regularly. It’s super easy too. You can have it screened at your doctor’s office or health clinic, drugstores, or even at home or on the road in your truck with a home blood pressure monitor.
Every year approximately 735,000 Americans suffer a heart attack. Of these, 525,000 are a first-time heart attack while 210,000 happen to those who have already had at least one heart attack. In fact, every 43 seconds someone in the United States has a heart attack. Let’s make sure that is not you!
What is a heart attack?
A heart attack, medically known as a myocardial infarction, happens when a part of the heart muscle does not receive enough blood flow. Your heart is a muscle and it needs oxygen to survive. When a portion of your heart does not receive blood, it does not receive oxygen, which can lead to damage or tissue death in your heart. Most heart attacks occur when coronary arteries that supply your heart with blood slowly build up with plaque and start to narrow.
What are the signs and symptoms of a heart attack?
- Pain or discomfort in the jaw, neck, or back
- Weakness, light-headedness, or faintness
- Chest pain or discomfort
- Pain or discomfort in arms and/or shoulders
- Shortness of breath
- Nausea, unusually tired, or light-headed (more common in women)
Also Read: Three Myths About Staying Healthy on The Road
What should I do if I am or someone I know is having a heart attack?
Call 911 immediately.
The sooner you get to an emergency room, the sooner you can receive vital treatment that can save your life or someone elses. In some cases of heart attacks, you may need to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) or electrical shock (defibrillation) with an AED.
How can I prevent a heart attack?
One of the best things you can do is quit smoking. Tobacco significantly increases your risk of developing heart disease. A healthy diet full of nutrient-rich foods like vegetables, fruits, and whole grains can not only lower your risk of heart disease, but also lower your cholesterol, blood pressure, and weight. Get active with daily exercise and monitor your blood pressure.
Your risk of having a heart attack in your lifetime can be significantly reduced through simple lifestyle changes. February is a great time to start to take your health seriously. Schedule a doctor’s appointment and check your blood pressure. Learn the signs or symptoms of a heart attack and take a CPR course. It could be a life saving decision.