Health officials in Pennsylvania are warning patients that chest compressations could worsen heart disease and lead to more chronic infections.
The Health Department is recommending that patients undergo chest compression or other medical treatment before undergoing heart surgery or other procedures in the state, where the average cost of a heart attack is $145,000, according to the state Department of Health.
According to the department, a patient who has chest congestion could experience more chronic heart disease symptoms and need to wear a chest compressor to help with chest discomfort, such as shortness of breath or chest tightness.
In the past, doctors have said the practice could increase the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
However, new data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, released Tuesday, shows that the average heart attack and stroke cost about $1 million in 2015.
The cost of treating heart disease for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in the U.S. is about $7 million, according the CDC.
The department said it does not recommend that chest compression be used to treat chronic obstructions.
