Heart Attack Signs in Women

Each year, more women die from heart disease than men. "The most important way to identify women at risk for heart disease is through appropriate risk-factor screening," says cardiologist Amy Ahnert, M.D., with Lehigh Valley Health Network.

The presence of high blood pressure, high cholesterol, vascular disease, kidney disease, obesity, poor diet and sedentary lifestyle equals risk for heart disease. Most importantly, women need to know the warning signs of a heart attack, which may be different than the classic chest pain symptoms for men:

• Chest discomfort or pain that lasts more than a few minutes
• Discomfort or pain in one or both arms, back, neck, jaw or stomach
• Shortness of breath with or without chest discomfort
• Cold sweats, nausea or lightheadedness
• Fatigue and extreme weakness

Call 9-1-1 immediately if you experience any of these symptoms.

	Next Step: Read Ask Our Expert columns about heart care. Call 610-402-CARE or click here.

Back Is Best for Baby

Having babies sleep on their backs decreases the risk for sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). "The key is educating parents and all caregivers about the risk for SIDS and the importance of making sure babies go to sleep on their backs," says pediatrician Gwendolyn Chung, M.D., of Lehigh Valley Health Network.

Although a definitive cause for SIDS has not yet been identified, control risk factors by following these steps:

• Make sure your baby always sleeps on her back rather than her stomach or side.
• Create a safe sleeping environment with a safety-approved crib or bassinet, firm mattress and well-fitting sheet.
• Don't overdress your baby and never cover her head with a blanket.
• Avoid sleep positioners that claim to reduce SIDS.
• Don't expose your baby to smoke or secondhand smoke, both during pregnancy and after birth.
  
  

	Next Step: Learn more about caring for your baby by visiting our recently updated "pregnancy care" website or call 610-402-CARE.

Can Shoes Keep You Fit?

"Rocker shoes" promise a toner, firmer shape if you simply put them on and walk around. "Everyone wants the easy way out when it comes to losing weight and getting in shape," says primary care physician Natalie Rice, M.D., with Lehigh Valley Health Network. "The truth is you need to routinely exercise hard enough to get your heart rate elevated, and you need to make smart choices about what you eat."

If you already purchased a pair of these sneakers, don't fret just yet. Anything that motivates you to exercise is good; just realize your footwear isn't a cure-all. You still need a mix of diet and exercise to slim down and tone up. When sneaker shopping, find a pair designed for the activity you wish to do.

	Next Step: Talk to your primary care physician before you begin any exercise program. Need a doctor? Call 610-402-CARE or click here.

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