How to Recognize Symptoms of A Heart Attack

As a woman in my 60's ... married to a man in his 60's ... I've made a real effort to learn how to recognize the symptoms of a heart attack. I'm concerned not just for myself and my husband, but also for our friends and neighbors, since we live in a retirement community. However, the truth is, people much younger than us sometimes die from heart attacks, so it is beneficial for everyone to know how to recognize the symptoms!

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. 
    
   Get the medical facts. Heart attack symptom can vary from person to person.

   First, obviously you should suspect a heart attack if the victim has pain in their chest. The problem is, the type of pain can vary from person to person, and can be different in men and women. The pain can be described as heavy pressure, squeezing, or tightness. The pain is constant and does not get better if you rest or lie down. It can spread to the shoulder, arm or jaw. Any severe chest pain that goes on for more than 10 minutes should prompt you to go to the emergency room immediately ... or call 9-1-1.

2. 
    
   A doctor or paramedic will need to listen to their heart and lungs.

   A heart attack victim will also experience breathing problems. They may begin panting, or breathing quickly. Their skin may become very pale or even look blue, especially around the lips. Their skin may also feel moist ... to the point of heavy perspiration. This is because their bodies are under so much stress.

3. 
    
   Your heart could begin to beat wildly.

   A person experiencing a heart attack will also have an abnormal pulse rate. It could be very fast or very slow.

4. If any of these events occur you should suspect a heart attack. If all of them are present, seek emergency help right away. The quicker you get help, the more likely the victim is to survive!

5. Source of symptom information: American Red Cross First Aid Class and literature

Tips & Warnings

• The symptoms of a heart attack are:
• Severe chest pain that sometimes moves to the arm or jaw
• Difficulty breathing
• Sweating
• Slow or rapid pulse
• DON'T TRY TO TREAT A HEART ATTACK YOURSELF. GET HELP QUICKLY!

[scales]

on 11/23/2009 very good tips! I think we should all take CPR classes! they do come in handy!5*

[ssweeks6]

on 11/12/2009 Great tips for signs of a heart attack. 5*