Would you know what to do if a loved one had a heart attack? Would you know how to recognize a major circulatory emergency? When the body’s circulation is not normal, it can deprive the heart the appropriate blood supply to keep it healthy. Moreover, a heart disease can further increase the risk for a heart attack by two-fold owing to the heart’s inability to pump blood and perform its physiologic functions efficiently because of the heart anatomical defects.
The information posted on this page on heart attacks, heart disease and circulatory emergencies is for learning purposes only. To learn to recognize and manage these life threatening emergencies sign up for a first aid and / or CPR class today.
Detecting the Signs of a Heart Attack in Men and Women
According to the American Heart Association, the most common warning sign of a heart attack is chest pain. The person usually feels a sudden discomfort in the chest area which is described as an uncomfortable pressure or squeezing pain. Shortness of breath also accompanies these symptoms. The symptoms of men and women are usually different, although the classic symptoms of chest pain and shortness of breath typically occur in both. Men’s symptoms for heart attack tend to be recurring and may last for a few minutes. Women, on the other hand, often feel light headedness, extreme fatigue and dizziness. Both men and women may also feel some discomfort in their jaw, neck and the discomfort may extend to the back.
Why You Need to Get Immediate Help
A heart attack can potentially lead to death. Many victims usually neglect to recognize the danger of the risks of getting a heart attack when their symptoms appear. Because a mild heart attack is often mistaken to a simple case of weakness due to fatigue, proper diagnosis of their condition was not obtained thus they fail to take the proper medication / precautions to prevent another heart attack in the future. Delayed medical assistance or intervention may lead to serious complications including death.
What You Can Do During a Heart Attack
When a heart attack takes place, do not waste any time in getting help. The attack can deprive the brain with sufficient oxygen that can result in death of the brain tissues. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation should be started immediately when normal breathing ceases. If you are the one who is experiencing a heart attack, it is unwise to drive yourself to the hospital. Call for help immediately and if you are taking a medication that helps prevent an increase in your blood pressure, ask someone to help you take it.
Reference:
WebMd. Heart Attacks and Heart Diseases. Retrieved on July 3, 2014 from http://www.webmd.com/heart-disease/guide/heart-disease-heart-attacks