Heart attack, warning signs and when to seek for help

What is a heart attack?

A heart attack is a serious medical emergency that occurs when the blood flow to a part of the heart is blocked. This can damage or destroy heart tissue and lead to heart failure.

Cases of heart attack can be very critical.

Warning signs of a heart attack

The most common warning sign of a heart attack is chest pain. The pain is usually described as a squeezing, pressure, or fullness in the center of the chest. It may also feel like pain in the back, neck, jaw, arms, or stomach.

Other warning signs of a heart attack can include:

• Shortness of breath
• Nausea or vomiting
• Lightheadedness or dizziness
• Cold sweat
• Fatigue
• Rapid or irregular heartbea

When to seek help for a heart attack

If you think you are having a heart attack, it is important to seek help immediately. Call 911 or your local emergency number. Do not wait to see if the pain goes away.

Even if you are not sure if you are having a heart attack, it is always better to be safe than sorry. If you have any of the warning signs of a heart attack, it is important to see a doctor right away.

Here are some additional tips for seeking help for a heart attack:

• Stay calm and reassure the person who is having the heart attack
• If the person is conscious, help them to sit down or lie down in a comfortable position.
• Loosen any tight clothing around their chest.
• If the person is unconscious, call 911 immediately.
• Do not give the person anything to eat or drink.
• Stay with the person until help arrives.

By knowing the warning signs of a heart attack and seeking help early, you can reduce the risk of serious complications.