A cardiac health awareness event, titled ‘Listen to Your Heart’ was held on 21st January at Stenecourt Shul, organised by The Jewish Community Foundation Trust (JCFT)supported by The Northwest Hearts Charity and the Board of Deputies of British Jews.
This event was dedicated to the memory of Jay Charara, who founded the JCFT.
In attendance were representatives of Salford Health Improvement Team who offered basic health checks for attendees. Also in attendance promoting their roles were Refuah Care, The North West Ambulance Service (NWAS) and Salford Healthy Community.
Guest Speakers to a very full house were
Professor Keith Pearce, Lead Consultant Cardiac Scientist, Manchester University Foundation Trust.
Doctor Eleri Roberts President of the Heart Rhythm Society which is dedicated to improving all aspects of Arrhythmia care and electrical device based therapies.
Doctor Niall Campbell Chairman of NW Hearts Charity whose aims are improving heart health outcomes for people living across Greater Manchester
The topics covered were symptoms of arrythmia . Atrial fibrillation, Pacemakers and symptoms of heart disease
Chaired By Dr Michael Mattison
Professor Keith Pearce discussed Atrial fibrillation, which is a common condition, especially seen in older adults but possible in all ages, The person affected may experience a feeling of palpitation or fluttering, they may feel tired, dizzy or breathless or have chest pain, but there may be no symptoms at all. He recommended to aways seeking attention quickly, e.g. within 24 hours of noticing an irregular pulse for the first time. especially If there are associated symptoms like chest pain, dizziness or breathlessness, one should seek attention without delay. It was advised to learn how to take your own readings and advice on how this can be done if unsure can be from your local healthcare provider.
Doctor Eleri Roberts, President of the British Heart Rhythm Society, spoke on pacemakers. Pacemakers monitor the heart rhythm continuously and store the history. Their aim is to treat slow heart rates or pauses in the heart beat due to electrical interruptions. They can be programmed to suit the individual and last 5-10 years or more. She also explained about implantable defibrillators, used in people at increased risk of life-threatening arrythmias or cardiac arrest, which is when the person collapses due to loss of cardiac output.
Dr Niall Campbell, Chair of the North West Hearts charity explained that heart disease is common, affecting 1 in 4 people at some stage in their life. Strategies were discussed that possibly could reduce risk include stopping smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, exercising and a healthy diet. He also advised that people should know their ‘numbers’: blood pressure, cholesterol and HbA1c (the test for diabetes) . He stressed the importance of seeking attention if there is chest pain and not always assume it is indigestion especially if it lasts for 15 minutes or more. The option is to call an ambulance or get to A+E to be checked. Patients with chest pain are always prioritised. If you ever witness someone collapsing and you have called for help, it is worth attempting CPR.
The audience had the opportunity after the presentation to ask many questions to the professionals.
Mr Alex Klein on behalf of the JCFT gave the vote of thanks.
