Heart Attack Warning Signs
Some heart attacks 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 with or without chest discomfort.
- Other
signs may include breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea or
lightheadedness
As with
men, women's most common heart attack symptom is chest pain or
discomfort. But women are somewhat more likely than men to
experience some of the other common symptoms, particularly shortness
of breath, nausea/vomiting, and back or jaw pain.
Learn the signs, but remember this:
Even if you're not sure it's a heart attack, have it checked
out (tell a doctor about your symptoms). Minutes matter! Fast action
can save lives maybe your own. Dont wait more than five minutes
to call 9-1-1 or your emergency response number.
Calling 9-1-1 is almost always the fastest way to get lifesaving
treatment. Emergency medical services (EMS) staff can begin
treatment when they arrive up to an hour sooner than if someone
gets to the hospital by car. EMS 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.
It is best to call EMS for rapid transport to the emergency room.
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