Jeopardy TV Host Alex Trebek Suffers A Mild Heart Attack

Alex Trebek suffered a mild heart attack on Saturday. The Jeopardy host is expected to recover in time to start the 29th season of Jeopardy in July.

Coming from a heart attack prone family, I thought that this would be a good time to review the warning signs of a heart attack, and the steps we can take to minimize our risks of having a heart attack. Many do not realize that the leading cause of death for both men and women is heart disease. The only difference between men and women is that the symptoms may be slightly different in women.

Warning Signs of a Heart Attack

As the American Heart Association states, "most heart attacks start slowly, with mild pain or discomfort. Often people affected aren't sure what's wrong and wait too long before getting help." Even if you are not sure if you are having a heart attack, talk with a health profession as soon as possible and describe your symptoms. Minute can make a difference between life and death.

These are the signs that you should take seriously if you experience them.

• Chest discomfort. Most heart attacks involve discomfort in the center of your chest. I can last for more than a few minutes, or go away and come back. I can feel like an uncomfortable pressure in the center of your chest, squeezing, a fullness sensation or pain.
• Symptoms can include pain or discomfort in one or both arms, your back, neck jaw or stomach.
• You can experience shortness of breath with or without chest discomfort.
• You may also experience a cold sweat, nausea or lightheadedness. 

Women may be more likely than men to experience shortness of breath, nausea and vomiting, and back or jaw pain.

The way to minimize your risks of having a heart attack is to live a heart healthy lifestyle. This includes

• Stop Smoking
• Choose a heart healthy diet. Eat foods low in sugars and saturated fats. Choose good foods like vegetables, fruits, cold water fish, lean proteins, whole grains and low fat dairy products
• Reduce your blood cholesterol, especially LDL and triglycerides.
• Lower your blood pressure. Your goal is less than 120 / 80 mmHg
• Be physically active everyday
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Manage your diabetes
• Reduce your stress
• And limit your alcohol consumption

Even if you live a healthy lifestyle, upon experiencing the symptoms of a heart attack, seek medical help as soon as possible.

Charles A. Pennison

References:

Huffpost: " Alex Trebek Heat Attack "
American Heart Association: " Prevention and Treatment of Heart Attack "
CDC: " Leading Cause of Death in Females "
CDC: " Leading Causes of Death in Males "