How to Spot a Heart Attack
So, how does a person know if they are having a heart attack? The most common manifestation is
generally described as a crushing, squeezing, pressure-like deep chest pain. The cause is reduced blood flow through the coronary arteries, which supply oxygen to heart muscle. The pain may radiate into the arm, neck, jaw or back and give a sense of uneasiness. Women may not have the “classic” presentation of chest discomfort. Sometimes the only symptom may be nausea, sweating, stomach pain (“indigestion”) or shortness of breath.
When it comes to heart attacks the most effective treatment is prevention. Most of us are familiar with the main risk factors of smoking, high blood pressure, a diet rich in cholesterol and saturated fats, obesity and inactivity. However, despite our best efforts in reducing these risk factors - heart attacks can still occur.
The bottom line is, don’t delay if you’re experiencing any of the aforementioned signs or symptoms. Call 9-1- 1 immediately and head to your local emergency room.
Camden Clark Medical Center recently received:
- 2018 Healthgrades Five Star: Treatment of Heart Failure
- US News and World 2017/18 High Performing Hospitals: Heart Failure
- 2017 Accredited Chest Pain Center Primary PCI with Resuscitation
- Carechex 2017 Medical Excellence Award: #1 in the Market for Interventional Coronary Care
- CareChex 2017 Patient Safety Award: Top 10% in the Nation for Cardiac Care
- CareChex 2017 Patient Safety Award: Top 10% in the Nation for Heart Attack Treatment
- CareChex 2017 Patient Safety Award: Top 10% in the Nation for Heart Failure Treatment
- CareChex 2017 Patient Safety Award: Top 10% in the Nation for Interventional Coronary Care
