February is American Heart Month and the Illinois Department of Public Health is encouraging everyone to learn the signs of a heart attack and how to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.  Cardiovascular disease includes heart disease, heart failure, stroke, hypertension, congenital cardiovascular defects and other diseases.  This accounts for 1 in every 3 deaths in Illinois, says IDPH Director Dr. LaMar Hasbrouck.  Some heart attacks are sudden and intense, but most heart attacks start slowly, with mild pain or discomfort.  Signs of a heart attack include chest pain or discomfort, upper body pain or discomfort, shortness of breath, lightheadedness, nausea and cold sweats.  If someone shows signs of a heart attack, call 911 immediately.  There are several risk factors that increase the likelihood of developing cardiovascular disease, such as high cholesterol, high blood pressure, smoking and obesity.  Today is Go Red Day, and the IDPH says workplaces around Illinois can show support for heart disease awareness and encourage employees to learn the signs of a heart attack.