Symptoms of a Heart Attack

So are you confident in your ability to recognize if you or someone you know is having a heart attack?

Heart Attack (Myocardial Infarction)

A Myocardial Infarction, or heart attack as it is commonly known, occurs when the blood flow that brings oxygen to your heart is severely reduced or completely cut off. Being able to recognize the early signs of a heart attack can mean the difference between life and death.

For most people, their first reaction is to deny that it is even happening to them. They may say to themselves statements such as “I’m ok, it’s nothing” or “It’ll go away in a minute.” Recognize these warning signs and seek medical treatment immediately.

Some of the signs that you may be experiencing a heart attack include:

·         Chest discomfort (pain, squeezing sensation, crushing, heaviness, tightness)

·         Discomfort in other areas of the upper body (pain or discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw or stomach)

·         Shortness of breath (with or without chest discomfort/pain)

·         Other signs such as breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea, vomiting or lightheadedness

Heart attacks, and the symptoms, in women are different. Although they do show some of the common signs, a woman may experience a heart attack without the chest discomfort. Most women complain about an upper back pressure as if they had a rope tied around them, shortness of breath (like after running a marathon but not having moved) and actually fainting.

The symptoms may vary from person to person. Never take them for granted. If you recognize that these symptoms are happening, do not hesitate to call 911 and get medical attention as soon as possible. The first two hours are the most critical.

Remember, the sooner you start treatment, the greater the likelihood that you will survive.