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.
