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Statistics
Coronary heart disease is America's No. 1 killer.
Stroke is No. 3 and a leading cause of serious disability. That's why
it's so important to reduce your risk factors, know the warning signs,
and know how to respond quickly and properly if warning signs occur.
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. May occur with or without chest discomfort.
Other signs: These may include breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea or
lightheadedness.
Minutes count! If you or someone you know is experiencing these
symptoms, it is imperative to seek
emergency medical help right away. If you suspect a heart attack, you
should:
• Call 9-1-1 or your local medical emergency number. If you don’t have
access to emergency medical
services, have someone drive you to the nearest hospital emergency room.
Drive yourself only as a last
resort, if there are absolutely no other options, keep in mind that you
place yourself and others at risk
when you drive under these circumstances.
• Take an aspirin. You should chew and swallow an aspirin, unless you
are allergic or have been advised
to not take aspirin by your physician.
• Take nitroglycerin, if prescribed. If you have previously been
prescribed nitroglycerin by your physician,
take it as directed. You should never take someone else’s prescriptions
because it could put you in
greater danger. |
