Heart Attack Warning Signs
Some Heart attacs are sudden and intense -- the "movie heart attack,"
where no one doubts what's happening. But most heart attacks start slowly, with mild pain or discomfort. Often people affected
aren't sure what's wrong and wait too long before getting help. Here are signs that can mean a heart attack is happening:
- Chest discomfort. Most heart attacks involve discomfort in the center of the chest that lasts
more than a few minutes, or that goes away and comes back. It can feel like uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness
or pain.
- Discomfort in other areas of the upper body. Symptoms can include pain or discomfort in one
or both arms, the back, neck, jaw or stomach.
- Shortness of breath. This feeling oten comes along with chest discomfort. But it can occur
before the chest discomfort.
- Other signs. These may include breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea or lightheadedness.
If you or someone you're with has chest discomfort, especially with one or more of the other signs,
don't wait longer than a few minutes (no more than 5) before calling for help. Call 9-1-1...Get to a hospital right away.
Calling 9-1-1 is almost always the fastest way to get lifesaving treatment. Emergency medical services staff
can begin treatment when they arrive -- up to an hour sooner than if someone gets to the hospital by car.
The staff are also trained to revive someone whose heart has stopped. Patients with chest pain who arrive by
ambulance usually receive faster treatment at the hospital, too.
If you can't access the emergency medical services (EMS), have someone drive you to the hospital right
away. If you're the one having symptoms, don't drive yourself, unless you have absolutely no other option.
For additional info visit the American Heart Association
