Our Opinion: Know the signs of stroke, heart disease

The leading cause of death in the United States may not always be preceded by "fair" warning.

Such is the paradox of heart disease. Debilitating symptoms do not always reveal the presence of the nation's leading killer. In my case, chest twinges during exertion began a diagnostic process that led to a triple-bypass operation - and spared me from a massive or fatal heart attack.

February is American Heart Month and, locally, the occasion for the Mid-Missouri Heart Ball. About 700 people are expected to attend this year's event, to be held Saturday.

This year marks the 25th installment of the local Heart Ball, according to Becki Collier, corporate events director for the American Heart Association. During its quarter century, she said the event has raised nearly $2 million in our community.

"The money raised goes to fund research and education to change and save lives," she said. "Our mission is to build healthier lives free of cardiovascular diseases and stroke. And thanks to the many volunteers, sponsors and donors we are well on our way."

What can you do to keep heart disease at bay?

First, know the warning signs of heart attack. They include:

• Chest discomfort, which - as in my case - may be mild.

• Discomfort in other areas of the upper body, including one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw or stomach.

• Shortness of breath and other symptoms, including breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea or lightheadedness.

Stroke, which has been known to strike with no warning, ranks as the fourth leading cause of death in the nation. Its warning signs are identified by the acronym FAST. They are:

• Face drooping. Does one side of the face droop or is it numb? Ask the person to smile.

• Arm weakness. Is one arm weak or numb? Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?

• Speech difficulty. Is speech slurred? Is the person unable to speak or hard to understand? Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence, like "The sky is blue." Is the sentence repeated correctly?

• Time to call 911. If the person shows any of these symptoms, even if the symptoms go away, call 911 and get them to the hospital immediately.

The American Heart Association's mission is to finance research of cardiovascular disease and promote awareness to save lives.

That mission deserves support, particularly during February's observance of Heart Month and the silver anniversary of the local Heart Ball.

- RFM