 |
|
|
Since 1985, the National
Heart Council has supported emergency training
programs, provided lifesaving equipment, and helped to fund educational
and direct service programs aimed at combating heart attack and heart
disease. Our educational materials are provided to hospitals, service
organizations
and the general public.
Looking for National Heart Research?
National Heart Research is the former name of what is now the National
Heart Council. The name was changed in the 1990's to better reflect
the work we were accomplishing. So if you're looking for National
Heart Research, you've found us, now with a new name!
What is a Heart Attack?
A heart attack occurs when the blood supply to part of the heart is severly
reduced or stopped. The medical term is "myocardial infarction." The
causes of heart attacks are a blocked artery from buildup of fatty deposits
in the arteries, or a blood clot in a coronary artery. The heart falters
and blood is unable to be pumped through the heart.
Early Warning Sings of a Heart Attack
If you experience any of the following warning signs, go to a hospital
immediately!
 |
Pressure, squeezing or pain in the chest for
more than two minutes. |
|
Pain may come on slowly and build up.
It is often "diffused" or spread out. |
|
Severe pain, dizziness, fainting, sweating,
nausea or shortness of breath. |
|
Pain or strange sensation in the jaw or arms. |
Remember: Denying these danger signs can kill you! Get medical help immediately.
Following are some of the educational materials developed and disseminated
by the Council:
 |
|
 |
| |
 |
Straight from the Heart
Over the past decade, video has become a very popular
and effective means of communicating an idea. For this
reason, the National Heart Council has finished production
of a dynamic and visually compelling new video-based program
about heart attack entitled Straight from the Heart. It
follows the experiences of five ethnically diverse families
who have been impacted by heart disease. Among its objectives
is to educate viewers that the warning signs of an imminent
heart attack are broader than the most common ones, such
as shooting pains in the arms. For example, pain in the
jaws and feet can often be signs that are not usually recognized.
Additionally, it focuses on the steps to take when someone
has a heart attack. Importantly, the video explores in
an entertaining, yet realistic manner, the powerful emotions
that are experienced on the part of heart attack survivors
and their spouses and children, as well. Feelings such
as anger and guilt are not often discussed openly. It
highlights the normal range of emotions that survivors
and their families
experience, and how to cope with these. Finally, the
video addresses the good habits and behaviors that can
help to
prevent heart attack. |
|
|
 |
|
 |
|
|
|
| |
 |
Water - The Forgotten Requirement
Many of us are becoming more active, talking walks in the
neighborhood, working in the garden, playing sports, jogging,
and enjoying other forms of physical exercise. While these
activities are good for the heart, not to mention the spirit,
it's very important that we drink enough water to prevent
becoming dehydrated. Most of us don't pay enough attention
to our need for water. Failure to replace water our body
loses every day due to breathing, sweating, and eliminating
waste, can cause serious health problems and can even lead
to death if not treated in a timely manner. This timely booklet
provides important facts about our need for water, how we
can recognize the symptoms of dehydration, and how to go
about getting the water our bodies need.
|
|
|
|
|
|
To learn how to obtain our educational
resources, click here »
Support the National Heart Council
|
