CARDIOLOGY staff at Dorset County Hospital are urging people to look out for signs of heart failure as part of a Europe-wide awareness campaign.
There will be a series of events across Dorset in aid of European Heart Failure Awareness Day, which is on May 6.
Community hospitals and GP surgeries will be hosting displays and the cardiology department at Dorset County Hospital will be providing leaflets for people to take away. A public awareness event is being held on Portland on May 3 from 10am to noon at the Community Centre at 6 Straits in Easton in partnership with Synergy Housing Association.
The Dorchester hospital is also staging a study day for heart professionals. Heart failure specialist nurse Tracey Dare will be co-ordinating the events in Dorset.
She said: “The campaign is designed to raise awareness of heart failure, including possible symptoms, and the importance of early and accurate diagnosis. Symptoms can include unexplained shortness of breath and swollen ankles. If you have any of the signs you should see your GP as soon as possible.” Attractions at the event include free health checks, stalls, educational stands and advice on stopping smoking.
You can find out more about heart failure on the campaign website at heartfailurematters.org
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