Don’t Ignore These Warning Signs: Recognizing Symptoms of a Heart Attack
A heart attack is a life-threatening medical emergency caused by a blood clot that blocks blood flow to the heart muscle. Recognizing the warning signs and getting prompt medical attention can make a significant difference in the outcome of a heart attack.
Common Symptoms of a Heart Attack
The most common symptom of a heart attack is chest pain or discomfort that may feel like pressure, squeezing, or aching. It may also spread to the arms, back, neck, jaw, or stomach. Other symptoms that may occur alongside chest pain include:
– Shortness of breath
– Nausea or vomiting
– Sweating
– Lightheadedness or fainting
– Feeling of anxiety or impending doom
Less Common Symptoms of a Heart Attack
In some cases, a heart attack may present with atypical symptoms, especially in women, older adults, and people with diabetes. These symptoms may include:
– Unexplained fatigue or weakness
– Dizziness or lightheadedness
– Indigestion or heartburn
– Upper back or shoulder pain
– Jaw or throat pain
– Flu-like symptoms such as fever, chills, or headache
What to Do If You Think You’re Having a Heart Attack
If you experience any warning signs of a heart attack, call 911 or emergency services right away. Do not hesitate, delay, or wait to see if the symptoms go away on their own. Early treatment can help prevent or limit damage to the heart muscle and improve your chances of survival.
While waiting for medical help to arrive, you can take some steps to relieve the symptoms and increase blood flow to the heart:
– Sit down and rest in a comfortable position.
– Chew and swallow one adult aspirin (325mg) or four low-dose aspirin (81mg) if you are not allergic to aspirin or have been advised not to take it.
– If you have nitroglycerin medication, take one tablet or spray it under your tongue as prescribed by your doctor.
How to Lower Your Risk of a Heart Attack
Preventing a heart attack involves making lifestyle changes that reduce your risk factors, such as:
– Quitting smoking or using tobacco products
– Eating a healthy diet low in saturated and trans fats, salt, and sugar
– Exercising regularly and maintaining a healthy weight
– Managing stress and getting enough sleep
– Controlling high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes
– Taking prescribed medications as directed by your doctor
By recognizing the warning signs of a heart attack and taking steps to lower your risk, you can protect your heart health and live a longer, healthier life. Don’t ignore the warning signs, and seek medical attention promptly if you experience any symptoms of a heart attack.
