Did You Know Heart Attacks Have Beginnings?
Oct 08, 2020
Heart attacks, like other diseases, have early signs and symptoms. However, if recognized in time, these beginnings can even be treated before the heart is damaged.
How can you prevent a heart attack?
Even if you dont think youre personally at risk, its important for everyone to learn how to prevent a heart attack and help others. This includes:
Learning the signs and symptoms of a heart attack. These signs occur differently in men and women.
Be alert for a heart attack in yourself or someone in your vicinity. Becoming an active bystander could save a life!
When in doubt, call 9-1-1. First responders have the medical technology to quickly save a life.
Learn the early signs & symptoms
Someone may experience any or all of these symptoms. When they start, they can be mild or come and go. Over time, the symptoms and pain increase until the victim collapses.
Chest pressure, squeezing, aching, or burning
Shortness of breath
Pain that travels down one or both arms
Back pain
Feeling of fullness
Jaw pain
Excessive fatigue
Nausea
Anxiety
Men v. Women. What is the difference?
Men normally feel pain and numbness in the left arm or side of chest, but in women, these symptoms may appear on the right side.
Women may feel completely exhausted, drained, dizzy or nauseous.
Women may feel upper back pain that travels up into their jaw.
Women may think their stomach pain is the flu, heartburn or an ulcer.
Know your risk factors
Below is a list of general risk factors. However, its important to discuss your individual risk for a heart attack with your doctor.
A family history of cardiovascular disease
High blood pressure
Overweight or obese
Sedentary lifestyle
Using tobacco products
Metabolic disease, diabetes or other illnesses
Editors Note: This article was submitted by Rachel Johnson, Marketing Specialist at Good Samaritan Medical Center. For more information she may be reached at 303-689-4000
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