Do you know the signs and symptoms of a heart attack and what to do if someone experiences these? Knowing may make the difference between life and death. Recognizing and responding immediately to the warning signs of a potential heart attack may significantly improve survival and recovery. February is Heart Month: take the time to be heart safe and learn how you can reduce your risk.
Common Signs of a Heart Attack
(Any, or all, of these signs and symptoms may occur)
- Chest discomfort described as simply a mild pressure up to a ‘crushing’ pain; may also be ‘squeezing’ or a ‘heavy’ sensation.
- Discomfort may move to the shoulders, arm, neck, or jaw.
- May include shortness of breath, sweating, or nausea/vomiting.
- Signs may vary person to person and can differ between men, women, and the elderly.
Heart Attack Risk Factors
- Obesity*
- Sedentary lifestyle*
- Smoking*
- High cholesterol*
- Age/Gender
- Family history
Speak with your doctor about how to treat your modifiable (*) risk factors and learn to be heart safe.
What To Do When Seconds Count
- Call 911, immediately. Early treatment can greatly reduce heart damage and be the difference between life and death.
- Treatment starts the moment EMS arrives. Paramedics can provide oxygen, start an intravenous, and perform an electrocardiogram (ECG).
- Paramedics can also administer important medication(s) in the early minutes of a heart attack to lessen heart damage.
- During transport, EMS will share information with the hospital so that definitive treatment can begin immediately upon arrival.
- Take a CPR/AED course. Training is widely available from many reputable organizations. It’s easy and could make a significant difference in the outcome of someone experiencing a heart attack.
