Introduction
A heart attack occurs when the flow of oxygen-rich blood to a section of heart muscle suddenly becomes blocked, usually by a blood clot. If blood flow isn’t restored quickly, the section of heart muscle begins to die. Heart attacks are a medical emergency, and quick treatment is essential.
It’s important to be aware of the symptoms of a heart attack so that you can seek medical help quickly. The most common symptom of heart attack is chest pain or discomfort. But women can experience other symptoms such as shortness of breath, nausea, and back or jaw pain. Knowing the warning signs and when to seek medical help can save your life.
Chest Pain or Discomfort
Chest pain or discomfort is the most common symptom of a heart attack. According to the American Heart Association (AHA), it may feel like an uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness, or pain. It can range from mild to severe.
There are different types of chest pain associated with a heart attack. It may feel like burning, sharp stabbing, or pressure. It may also come and go over a period of time. The pain may spread to other parts of the body, such as the arms, neck, or jaw.
It’s important to seek medical help immediately if you experience any type of chest pain or discomfort. According to Dr. Gregg Fonarow, professor of cardiology at the University of California, Los Angeles, “Time is critical when it comes to treating a heart attack. The sooner you get to the hospital, the better your chances of avoiding serious complications.”
Heart Rate and Breathing
A normal resting heart rate is 60 to 100 beats per minute, while a normal respiratory rate is between 12 and 20 breaths per minute. If you notice that your heart rate or breathing is abnormally high, this could be a sign of a heart attack.
According to the AHA, some people may experience rapid or irregular heartbeats during a heart attack. This could be accompanied by difficulty breathing or shortness of breath. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek medical help right away.
Shortness of Breath
Shortness of breath is another common symptom of a heart attack. It may occur before or after chest pain. It can be a feeling of being unable to catch your breath or feeling like you can’t get enough air.
Shortness of breath can have many causes, including cardiac and non-cardiac causes. According to Dr. Robert O. Bonow, professor of medicine at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, “Shortness of breath can be a sign of a heart attack, especially if it is accompanied by chest discomfort or tightness, or pain in the jaw or arms.”
If you experience shortness of breath, it’s important to seek medical help right away. If possible, call 911 or your local emergency number.
Nausea and/or Sweating
Nausea and/or sweating can also be signs of a heart attack. According to the AHA, some people may experience nausea, indigestion, or a stomachache during a heart attack. They may also experience cold sweats or clammy skin.
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek medical help right away. Time is of the essence in treating a heart attack, and every second counts.
Arm, Jaw, or Neck Pain
Pain in the arms, jaw, or neck can also be a symptom of a heart attack. According to the AHA, pain or discomfort in these areas can be a sign of a heart attack, especially if it is accompanied by chest pain.
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek medical help right away. Every second counts in treating a heart attack, and getting to the hospital quickly can make a difference in the outcome.
Conclusion
Knowing the warning signs of a heart attack is essential to ensure you’re able to seek medical help in time. The most common symptom of a heart attack is chest pain or discomfort, but other symptoms include rapid or irregular heartbeats, shortness of breath, nausea and/or sweating, and pain in the arms, jaw, or neck. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek medical help right away.
Time is of the essence in treating a heart attack, and getting to the hospital quickly can make a difference in the outcome. Knowing the warning signs and when to seek medical help can save your life.
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