The Importance of Recognizing the Signs of a Heart Attack

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By learning to recognize the symptoms of a heart attack you could save your life or the life of someone else. Someone who has or is suffering a heart attack must get medical attention as soon as possible to minimize the damage done to their systems.

People often only think of a heart attack in terms of what is portrayed on television. Although the chest gripping pain can come on suddenly, intensely, and quickly it is not always the case. Clearly if someone exhibits these symptoms you will need to contact 911 immediately. But what if the symptoms are a bit different then this would you know what to do?

Can pain that comes and goes be a sign of a heart attack? A heart attack can sometimes exhibit itself this way also. Some people experience pain that comes and goes.  The feeling is sometimes very intense in the center of the chest. The pain may be exhibited in other parts of the body such as the neck, arms, and jaw.  Other symptoms may include shortness of breath, and nausea. If the person is short of breath and is cold and clammy they may also be suffering from a heart attack.

Would you know what to do if someone had a heart attack? First and foremost call 911 immediately. Find out what medications the person may be taking and write them down.  Ask if they are taking nitroglycerine. Providing an asprin can be helpful as it helps to thin the blood out. The person should chew it to help it absorb into their blood stream faster.

If the person becomes unconscious and stops breathing, be prepared to do CPR. It is always good to know basic first aid and CPR just for this reason. Quick thinking and knowledge can save your or someone else’s life some day. Saving a life makes knowing the symptoms of a heart attack very important.  You never know when one may strike.