February is a natural time to talk about heart health. But more than awareness, it’s a reminder.

Every year, it’s worth refreshing yourself on the signs of a heart attack or stroke — but because you never know when that knowledge could save a life.

It could be a colleague. A neighbor. A parent. A stranger in a grocery store. Or even you.

Taking five minutes to review the basics can make all the difference.

Heart attack symptoms can vary — and they don’t always look dramatic. While chest pain is common, it’s not the only sign.

Common symptoms include:

• Chest discomfort (pressure, squeezing, fullness, or pain)

• Pain or discomfort in the arms, back, neck, jaw, or stomach

• Shortness of breath

• Cold sweat

• Nausea or lightheadedness

• Unusual fatigue (especially in women)

⚠️ Important: Women may experience subtler symptoms like fatigue, nausea, or jaw/back pain without severe chest pain.

What to Do

• Call 911 immediately. Don’t drive yourself unless absolutely necessary.

• Chew an aspirin (if not allergic and advised by a medical professional).

• Stay calm and sit or lie down while waiting for emergency services.

Minutes matter. The faster someone receives care, the more heart muscle can be saved.

When it comes to stroke, remember F.A.S.T.:

• F – Face drooping: Does one side of the face droop or feel numb?

• A – Arm weakness: Is one arm weak or numb? Does it drift downward?

• S – Speech difficulty: Is speech slurred or hard to understand?

• T – Time to call 911: If you see any of these signs, call immediately.

Other possible symptoms include:

• Sudden confusion

• Trouble seeing in one or both eyes

• Trouble walking, dizziness, or loss of balance

• Severe headache with no known cause

What to Do

• Call 911 immediately.

• Note the time symptoms started — this information helps medical teams determine the best treatment.

• Do not give food, drink, or medication unless instructed by professionals.

With stroke, treatment is highly time-sensitive. Acting quickly can reduce long-term disability and improve survival.

💗 Why This Refresher Matters

We refresh fire drills. We review emergency exits. We practice safety protocols.

Heart attack and stroke awareness deserve the same attention.

Each year, use February as your reset:

• Review the signs.

• Share them with your family.

• Post them in a visible place.

• Talk about them with your kids or aging parents.

Because someday, in a moment you don’t expect, you might be the one who recognizes the signs and takes action.

And that action could save a life.