Deeside.com > News
Posted: Fri 17th Jul 2020
A heart attack and cardiac arrest survivor wants women to be aware of the signs which show their heart might be in trouble.
Tracy Healey is a fit and health 55 year old who eats well, doesnt smoke and generally leads a healthy lifestyle.
But earlier this year she suffered both a heart attack and a cardiac arrest after not recognising early warnings signs.
Tracy, who lives in Corwen, is now joining cardiac nurses at the North Wales Cardiac Centre to urge other women to keep an eye out for the telltale signs that their health could be in danger.
While both men and women can both experience the same common symptoms when experiencing a heart attack, early indications that youre unwell tend to be different for each gender.
Tracy said: I ignored the indigestion type pain that occurred in the night. It was only when the worsening discomfort started to move down one arm, and I awoke feeling very unwell with clammy skin and worsening pains around 4am that I decide to seek medical help and it was a good job I did.
Heart attack symptoms vary from person to person, and can include chest discomfort or tightness, pain that spreads to left or right arm, neck or jaw, back or stomach, unexplained sweating or shortness of breath.
Only around half of the women who have heart attacks, experience the constrictive chest pain typically associated with a heart attack. Typically, women tend to more commonly experience heartburn-like discomfort, neck or back pain, or nausea.
Tracy said: I never thought that I would ever have a heart attack at 55, I am generally fit and healthy I dont smoke and had been out for a nice walk the day before the incident with my family.
I do have a family history of heart disease but I have never had any symptoms suggesting I had a heart problem until now. I did not have the classic symptoms of a heart attack that you see on TV, like a crushing type chest pain.
My symptoms were different to that, having a heart attack never crossed my mind. My pain felt like mild indigestion at first, I went to bed but did not sleep for long as the pain got worse and kept waking me up. I began to feel hot and It was only when I started to get an odd discomfort in my arms that I thought something was not right and Id better seek medical help. Im still shocked about the whole thing.
After struggling with the digestive pain she experienced for around four hours, Tracy visited Wrexham Maelor Hospital Emergency Department to seek help.
On arrival to hospital my chest discomfort got worse, I began to feel generally unwell and this is when my heart stopped beating and I had a cardiac arrest.
Luckily I was in the emergency department at the time and the staff began CPR. I was then transferred by ambulance to the North Wales Cardiac Centre at Glan Clwyd where I was told that one of my coronary arteries, which is a blood vessel that feeds blood and oxygen to my heart muscle had blocked and was restricting blood flow.
Thankfully the team at the North Wales Cardiac Centre were quickly able to unblock the coronary artery by inserting a stent through my wrist, allowing blood to flow back to the heart muscle.
Anne-Marie Angel, Coronary Care Nurse at the North Wales Cardiac Centre, said: Heart attack symptoms vary from person to person. Common signs include chest discomfort that feels like pressure or tightness, pain that spreads to left or right arm, neck or jaw, back or stomach and some may feel sweaty or short of breath.
Women are more likely to get symptoms including back or neck pain, indigestion, heartburn or nausea. These symptoms are often easy to ignore and are passed off as something else.
We also know that women may be less likely to seek medical help or treatment despite all the warning signs and this unfortunately can dramatically reduce the chances of survival.
Luckily Tracy decided to seek medical help in time to receive rapid treatment, which is essential for a good recovery.
Tracy said: I am so very grateful to the staff at both Wrexham Maelor, Glan Clwyd Hospital and the North Wales cardiac centre, for the care I have received.
Everyone has been so reassuring, kind and supportive and I cant thank them enough.
If I could send one message out to the public of North Wales, it would be dont ignore your chest pain like I did, call 999 and get medical help as soon as you can, I almost left it too late.
Spotted something? Got a story? Send a Facebook Message | A direct message on Twitter | Email: News@Deeside.com
- Amway hosts campaign on wellness of women [Last Updated On: August 18th, 2024] [Originally Added On: March 26th, 2014]
- 'Our products support a healthy lifestyle' [Last Updated On: August 18th, 2024] [Originally Added On: March 26th, 2014]
- Sport touted as the best medicine against heart disease [Last Updated On: August 18th, 2024] [Originally Added On: March 26th, 2014]
- The Doctor Is In: We are what we eat: More evidence proving that mainly plant-based diet is best [Last Updated On: August 18th, 2024] [Originally Added On: March 26th, 2014]
- HEALTHY LIVING | 8 ways to keep healthy this summer [Last Updated On: August 18th, 2024] [Originally Added On: March 26th, 2014]
- Healthy lifestyle emphasized at annual Commit to B-Fit fair [Last Updated On: August 18th, 2024] [Originally Added On: March 26th, 2014]
- Healthy Lifestyle [Last Updated On: August 18th, 2024] [Originally Added On: March 26th, 2014]
- Simple Ways to Live a Healthy Lifestyle - About.com Exercise [Last Updated On: August 18th, 2024] [Originally Added On: March 26th, 2014]
- IDLIFE can help you become a healthy YOU! - Video [Last Updated On: August 18th, 2024] [Originally Added On: March 26th, 2014]
- WEEK FULL OF EPICNESS! (VLOG #34) - Video [Last Updated On: August 18th, 2024] [Originally Added On: March 26th, 2014]
- Healthy Lifestyle |Ventura County - Video [Last Updated On: August 18th, 2024] [Originally Added On: March 26th, 2014]
- YMCA trying to fix Marion Countys poor health rating [Last Updated On: August 18th, 2024] [Originally Added On: March 27th, 2014]
- What Foods Should I Eat? A New Video Launched by Conscious Counselor [Last Updated On: August 18th, 2024] [Originally Added On: March 27th, 2014]
- Ministry of Health Launched Healthy Lifestyle Programme for Senior Citizens [Last Updated On: August 18th, 2024] [Originally Added On: March 27th, 2014]
- Health and Wellness Video Assignment - Video [Last Updated On: August 18th, 2024] [Originally Added On: March 27th, 2014]
- Chia Girl - 4 Rules for Weight Loss & Maintenance (CHIA SEEDS) - Video [Last Updated On: August 18th, 2024] [Originally Added On: March 27th, 2014]
- Career Hunt SK [Last Updated On: August 18th, 2024] [Originally Added On: March 29th, 2014]
- Survey shows most people want health education in schools [Last Updated On: August 18th, 2024] [Originally Added On: March 29th, 2014]
- Marriage Is a Prescription for a Healthy Heart, Study Suggests [Last Updated On: August 18th, 2024] [Originally Added On: March 29th, 2014]
- PSA - Health Choices - Video [Last Updated On: August 18th, 2024] [Originally Added On: March 29th, 2014]
- Husse Promo Video Healthy Lifestyle For Dogs - Video [Last Updated On: August 18th, 2024] [Originally Added On: March 29th, 2014]
- The Guide to an Active and Healthy Lifestyle While Unemployed - #1 - Video [Last Updated On: August 18th, 2024] [Originally Added On: March 29th, 2014]
- Erectile Dysfunction: Healthy Lifestyle Can Reverse Male Impotence Without Medication [Last Updated On: August 18th, 2024] [Originally Added On: March 30th, 2014]
- Lords of Health:Multipliers of Healthy lifestyle - Video [Last Updated On: August 18th, 2024] [Originally Added On: March 30th, 2014]
- Comm175 Persuasive Speech - Video [Last Updated On: August 18th, 2024] [Originally Added On: March 30th, 2014]
- Boys & Girls Clubs of San Dieguito seeks donations for kitchen and garden project at branch in Encinitas [Last Updated On: August 18th, 2024] [Originally Added On: March 31st, 2014]
- Aljur does more with a healthy lifestyle [Last Updated On: August 18th, 2024] [Originally Added On: March 31st, 2014]
- ERHS Healthy Lifestyle 2014 - Video [Last Updated On: August 18th, 2024] [Originally Added On: March 31st, 2014]
- [ENG] March Holiday Assignment 2014 - Healthy Lifestyle - Video [Last Updated On: August 18th, 2024] [Originally Added On: March 31st, 2014]
- People living with diabetes are able to have a healthy lifestyle - Video [Last Updated On: August 18th, 2024] [Originally Added On: March 31st, 2014]
- Ross Wellness Series - Changing for a heart healthy lifestyle - Video [Last Updated On: August 18th, 2024] [Originally Added On: March 31st, 2014]
- Alzheimer's Healthy Lifestyle - Video [Last Updated On: August 18th, 2024] [Originally Added On: March 31st, 2014]
- Bench Tune Up Work Week 4 - Video [Last Updated On: August 18th, 2024] [Originally Added On: March 31st, 2014]
- Simple Ways to Live a Healthy Lifestyle - Exercise - Get ... [Last Updated On: August 18th, 2024] [Originally Added On: April 3rd, 2014]
- CBD System - Creative Body Dynamics - Healthy Lifestyle - Change of Life - Video [Last Updated On: August 18th, 2024] [Originally Added On: April 3rd, 2014]
- Unicity Bios Life Slim Highly Recommended by Dr. Ira Bloomfield - Video [Last Updated On: August 18th, 2024] [Originally Added On: April 3rd, 2014]
- Shocking Weight Loss Video - Unicity Bios Life Slim Supplements - Physicians Strongly Recommended - Video [Last Updated On: August 18th, 2024] [Originally Added On: April 3rd, 2014]
- A Good Dose Of Morning Sunlight Keeps Off The Pounds: Study [Last Updated On: August 18th, 2024] [Originally Added On: April 3rd, 2014]
- Up Your Game: Habits To Kick To Stay Healthy - Video [Last Updated On: August 18th, 2024] [Originally Added On: April 3rd, 2014]
- Healthy lifestyle PR (UNITEN) - Video [Last Updated On: August 18th, 2024] [Originally Added On: April 3rd, 2014]
- CADA Launches new Committed Campaign, encouraging teens to be substance free. [Last Updated On: August 18th, 2024] [Originally Added On: April 4th, 2014]
- Healthy Lifestyle | Los Angeles CA | tennis tournament california | Southern California Tennis Assoc - Video [Last Updated On: August 18th, 2024] [Originally Added On: April 4th, 2014]
- **My Healthy Lifestyle: HUGE changes update, Diet, Exercise & Juicing** - Video [Last Updated On: August 18th, 2024] [Originally Added On: April 4th, 2014]
- Healthy Lifestyle Lounge Fitness Sessions - Video [Last Updated On: August 18th, 2024] [Originally Added On: April 4th, 2014]
- Healthy Fontana program receives donation during Doctors Day presentation [Last Updated On: August 18th, 2024] [Originally Added On: April 5th, 2014]
- Healthy Lifestyle Key to NCD Prevention [Last Updated On: August 18th, 2024] [Originally Added On: April 5th, 2014]
- 50 Ideas for a Healthy Lifestyle that take 10 Minutes or ... [Last Updated On: August 18th, 2024] [Originally Added On: April 5th, 2014]
- Healthy Lifestyle Rewards 2011 - Video [Last Updated On: August 18th, 2024] [Originally Added On: April 5th, 2014]
- Healthy LifeStyle Changes| 21 Day Challenge | How I lost 10lbs in 21 Days | BGW2 - Video [Last Updated On: August 18th, 2024] [Originally Added On: April 5th, 2014]
- Prophetess Henrine Gray - Living A Healthy Lifestyle As God - Video [Last Updated On: August 18th, 2024] [Originally Added On: April 5th, 2014]
- How To Maintain Healthy Lifestyle SYTan - Video [Last Updated On: August 18th, 2024] [Originally Added On: April 7th, 2014]
- Cutest, FUNNIEST "Healthy Lifestyle Show" Pilot - Video [Last Updated On: August 18th, 2024] [Originally Added On: April 7th, 2014]
- Accountability Parnters.... my healthy lifestyle journey - Video [Last Updated On: August 18th, 2024] [Originally Added On: April 7th, 2014]
- Bryan College 866.649.2400 - Convert Your Healthy Lifestyle into a Career - Video [Last Updated On: August 18th, 2024] [Originally Added On: April 7th, 2014]
- A Healthy Lifestyle - Video [Last Updated On: August 18th, 2024] [Originally Added On: April 7th, 2014]
- Sam Edney: 4 components of a healthy lifestyle - Video [Last Updated On: August 18th, 2024] [Originally Added On: April 7th, 2014]
- Staying healthy keeps cash in your pocket [Last Updated On: August 18th, 2024] [Originally Added On: April 8th, 2014]
- Illustration depicting a sign post with directional arrow containing a healthy lifestyle concept. Bl - Video [Last Updated On: August 18th, 2024] [Originally Added On: April 8th, 2014]
- What things should a healthy lifestyle have in it? - Video [Last Updated On: August 18th, 2024] [Originally Added On: April 8th, 2014]
- Healthy Lifestyle Part 2 - Video [Last Updated On: August 18th, 2024] [Originally Added On: April 8th, 2014]
- Healthy Lifestyle Part 3 - Video [Last Updated On: August 18th, 2024] [Originally Added On: April 8th, 2014]
- Healthy Lifestyle Part 1 - Video [Last Updated On: August 18th, 2024] [Originally Added On: April 8th, 2014]
- Mentoring a healthy lifestyle [Last Updated On: August 18th, 2024] [Originally Added On: April 9th, 2014]
- Choose a Healthy Lifestyle - American Heart Association ... [Last Updated On: August 18th, 2024] [Originally Added On: April 9th, 2014]
- What is a Healthy Lifestyle? - Healthy Lifestyles Living ... [Last Updated On: August 18th, 2024] [Originally Added On: April 9th, 2014]
- Healthy Treasures Online - Learn how to have a healthy lifestyle and living life to the fullest! - Video [Last Updated On: August 18th, 2024] [Originally Added On: April 9th, 2014]
- Hua Ho Holds Sports Fair to Promote Active and Healthy Lifestyle [Last Updated On: August 18th, 2024] [Originally Added On: April 11th, 2014]
- How To Maintain A Healthy Lifestyle - Video [Last Updated On: August 18th, 2024] [Originally Added On: April 11th, 2014]
- Healthy Lifestyle |Riverside County - Video [Last Updated On: August 18th, 2024] [Originally Added On: April 11th, 2014]
- 6 tips on how to start over for a healthy lifestyle - Video [Last Updated On: August 18th, 2024] [Originally Added On: April 11th, 2014]
- Weigh loss and Healthy Lifestyle Update - Video [Last Updated On: August 18th, 2024] [Originally Added On: April 11th, 2014]
- Acidophilus Probiotic And FOS A Mental Health Definition Of A Healthy Lifestyle!! - Video [Last Updated On: August 18th, 2024] [Originally Added On: April 11th, 2014]
- Love'em BIG girl With big Dreams promoting a healthy Lifestyle~ - Video [Last Updated On: August 18th, 2024] [Originally Added On: April 11th, 2014]
- Healthy Lifestyle KMS - Video [Last Updated On: August 18th, 2024] [Originally Added On: April 11th, 2014]
- Healthy Lifestyle Starts from the Kitchen with Ms Jean Yeap - Video [Last Updated On: August 18th, 2024] [Originally Added On: April 11th, 2014]
- Sebli: Our responsibility to promote healthy lifestyle [Last Updated On: August 18th, 2024] [Originally Added On: April 12th, 2014]
- Inspired by champions [Last Updated On: August 18th, 2024] [Originally Added On: April 12th, 2014]
- Healthy lifestyle regime BENEVITA ES - Video [Last Updated On: August 18th, 2024] [Originally Added On: April 12th, 2014]
- healthy lifestyle russian project 1080p - Video [Last Updated On: August 18th, 2024] [Originally Added On: April 13th, 2014]
- Body Transformation | Fitness Motivation - Video [Last Updated On: August 18th, 2024] [Originally Added On: April 14th, 2014]