Wednesday, November 16, 2011

Know Your Symptoms

Some heart attacks are sudden and intense; however, 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.

1 comment:

  1. Over the summer I worked as a lifeguard and I always remind my new lifeguards of theses symptoms and how to manage the situation. Since a heart attack is a life threatening situation if you recognize any of these symptoms dial 911 even if you are unsure they are having a heart attack as time is everything.

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