Don’t Deny these Signs of a Heart Attack:
- Uncomfortable pressure, fullness, squeezing or pain in the chest that lasts for more than a few minutes.
- Chest discomfort, with dizziness; fainting, sweating, nausea, or shortness of breath.
- Unusual digestion.
- Chest pain that comes and goes.
- Pain between the shoulder blades.
If you or someone you're with has chest discomfort, especially with one or more of the other signs, don't wait longer than a few minutes (no more than 5) before getting help. Get to a hospital right away.
Other Important Heart Attack-Related Information to be Aware of:
- 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
- Women report symptoms that are different than men report. So it’s important for women to recognize the symptoms that are unique to them. For women, they usually involve chest pain. But, women may also experience any of the other problems described above, especially nausea, shortness of breath or pain to the arm, shoulder or neck.
- Coronary heart disease is America's No. 1 killer. That's why it's so important to know the warning signs, and know how to respond quickly and properly if warning signs occur.
- 95% of cardiac arrest victims die before reaching the hospital. Knowing the signs/symptoms of a heart attack and getting immediate help via the nearest ER will save lives.
