Chest Pain Emergency Center

The Carle Chest Pain Emergency Center (CPEC) provides immediate care for those with chest pain or discomfort, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Located in the Carle Foundation Hospital Emergency Department, the Chest Pain Emergency Center features specially trained staff and the latest diagnostic equipment to rapidly evaluate chest pain patients. A cardiologist is on call 24-hours a day, 7 days a week to provide immediate cardiac care for those experiencing heart attacks.

When experiencing chest pain the most important thing to do is seek immediate help. Don’t hope that the pain will simply go away or don’t assume it is a case of heartburn - it could be a heart attack. And the faster you seek treatment, the less damage a heart attack can cause.

Carle's Chest Pain Emergency Center (217) 383- 4848.

Learn the Warning Signs of a Heart Attack

Lower Your Risk for Heart Disease

Learn the warning signs of a heart attack:

• Mild pain, pressure or squeezing in the center of your chest lasting more than 15 minutes
• Pain, discomfort or pressure that may remain constant or may go away during rest and then return during activity
• Pain, discomfort or pressure which spreads to your shoulders, neck or down your arms
• Pain, discomfort or pressure accompanied by nausea, sweating or shortness of breath

It is important to remember that these warning signs vary with each individual. Some people having a heart attack may describe the symptoms as nothing more than a "funny feeling." Others may experience pressure, burning, heaviness, squeezing, cramping or tightness in their chest. If you experience any of the above symptoms, seek help immediately - it could save your life.

Lower your risk for having a heart attack

There are many lifestyle change that will lower your risk factors for heart disease and heart attacks. If you are at risk for heart disease or if you would like to take preventitive steps, contact Cardiac Rehabilitation and Education.

• Don’t Smoke - Studies show that smoking can increase your chances of developing heart disease by 70%.
• Have Your Blood Pressure Checked Regularly - If the results show that your blood pressure is high, see a physician so that he or she may prescribe treatment immediately.
• Exercise Regularly - Exercising on regular basis will keep your heart healthy. Physicians recommend that individuals participate in 20 minutes of aerobic exercise(walking, swimming, etc.) at least three times each week. If you have not been involved in a regular exercise program, you should consult your doctor beofere beginning one.
• Watch Your Weight - Obesity can increase your chances of having a heart attack. In order to maintain a health weight, eat a healthy diet and exercise regularly. Contact Carle’s Weight Management for more information.
• Eat a Balanced Diet - Eat at least five servings of fruit and vegetables a day. Avoid or limit red meat, fried foods, high-fat dairy items and food high in saturated fat which will contribute to heart disease. Visit Carle’s Nutrition page for more information.

Watch Your Cholesterol
High cholesterol is serious contributor to heart disease. Have your cholesterol checked by your physician on a regular basis.

Consider Uncontrollable Risk Factors
There are a number of uncontrollable risk factors such as person’s age, family history, and race that contribute to heart disease. For example, individuals who are over the age of 65, have a history of heart disease in the family, have diabetes, or are African-American, have a higher risk for heart disease. If one of these risk factors applies to you, take extra precautions, inform your family physician, and continue regular check-ups.

If you have had a heart attack or if you are at risk for heart disease, please contact Cardiac Rehabilitation and Education for more information. The CRE offers a range of services from stress testing to diet development to yoga.