How to Know if You are Having a Heart Attack
If you experience symptoms of what you believe is a heart attack, don't be tempted to downplay those symptoms. It is better to be safe than sorry. The first and foremost thing to do is to call 9-1-1 immediately, or have someone drive you to the nearest emergency room. Only drive yourself as a very last resort. It is said that taking an aspirin can help. It is proven that aspirin has been effective in aiding heart attack patients, but again, call 911 first, and you will be told what to do. You may have certain medical conditions that will make it worse if you take and aspirin, and if you are having a stroke, this could make bleeding worse. Here are some symptoms to watch for.
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Instructions
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The first symptom you may notice if you are having a heart attack is chest discomfort. This may feel like a tight ache, pressure, fullness, or squeezing in the center of your chest This discomfort may come and go, and may only last a few minutes.
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Next, you may experience upper body pain. The pain and discomfort may spread beyond your chest to your shoulders, neck, , back, arms, teeth, and jaw. You may have upper body pain and no chest discomfort.
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A third sign or symptom to look for is stomach pain. The pain may extend down into your abdomen, and can feel like you are having heartburn.
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Next, look for shortness of breath. You may pant for breath or try to take deep breaths. This often happens before the chest pains.
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Another symptom is anxiety. You may have a sense of doom, or as if you are having a panic attack for no apparent reason.
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Finally, you may feel lightheadedness and sweating with accompanying nausea and vomiting. If you feel dizzy, are throwing up, and breaking into a cold sweat, there is a possibility you may be having a heart attack.
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Tips & Warnings
Do not downplay any symptoms. Always call 9-1-1. You may experience all, one, or two or more of the symptoms to signal you are in fact having a heart attack. Better safe than sorry.
Do not take aspirin unless you are told, or your doctor has pre-approved it. It can make things worse if you may be having a stroke along with the heart attack.
