often prevent a serious outcome.
“If you think someone is having an heart attack, call 911. Don’t wait,” Goldberg said. It is also important to take an ambulance to the hospital instead of catching a ride with a family member or friend because an ambulance is equipped to offer treatment on the way to the hospital.
Heart Attack Symptoms
Chest Discomfort
Most heart attacks involve discomfort in the center of the chest that lasts more than a few minutes, or that goes away and comes back. It can feel like uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain.
Discomfort in other areas of the body
Symptoms can include pain or discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw or stomach.
Shortness of Breath
with or without chest discomfort.
Other Signs
may include breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea or lightheadedness.
In Case of a Heart Emergency…
Despite the differences between a heart attack and cardiac arrest, both of these conditions share one extremely important detail: in the case of either, it is crucial that you seek medical attention immediately. Otherwise, further damage to the heart muscle can occur and an irregular heart rhythm may develop.
If you think someone is suffering from a heart emergency, call 911 immediately. The person may need emergency care such as Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) or Electrical Shock (Defibrillation) until emergency medical personnel arrive. At the hospital, doctors can perform tests to determine the specific heart condition in question and decide on the best treatment.