Facts about heart attacks everyone should know. 

When you're having a heart attack, the faster you get treatment, the better your chance of survival. That's why Erlanger follows a special protocol called Code STEMI to ensure that heart attack patients are evaluated and treated faster—in fact, a full 28 minutes faster than the national standard.

Warning signs for men and women:

It's important to know the classic symptoms of a heart attack—and to know that, in women, the symptoms are often different, or more subtle.

General Symptoms Uncomfortable pressure, fullness, squeezing, or pain in the chest Pain in the shoulders, neck, or arms Anxiety, nervousness, and/or cold, sweaty skin Lightheadedness, fainting, sweating, nausea, or shortness of breath Any unexplained symptoms that come with exertion and go away with rest

Symptoms more common in women include: Unusual fatigue or weakness  Disturbance in sleep  Shortness of breath Indegestion-like symptoms  Anxiety Dizziness

Remember—there are no hard, fast rules. Men and women alike can have any of the above symptoms. And many of these warning signs are easily mistaken for something else. So never second-guess your symptoms.

If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms call 911 and go to the Chest Pain Center immediately.

The right doctors.

In the 50 years since the region's first open heart surgery in 1960, virtually every meaningful advance in cardiology in our area has happened at Erlanger, the region's only Teaching Hospital. And now, the tradition of leadership continues with the region's first and only academic heart care group.

Support from people who understand.

Defeating cancer is about more than treating the illness. That’s why Erlanger created the region’s only patient advocate program, to help patients and families cope with the stresses that come with the diagnosis. These caring people are with you every step of the way, offering support, education and advice, so you can make every decision with confidence.

For an appointment with a doctor at UT Erlanger Cardiology
CALL 423-778-DOCS  
Or visit www.erlanger.org/physicians for more information