citizensmemorial.com 15 Sure, you know that a heart attack is a medical emergency. But would you recognize the warning signs and seek treatment early enough? A heart attack usually happens when a blood vessel that supplies the heart becomes blocked with plaque. Unless the heart’s oxygen-rich blood supply is restored quickly at a hospital, part of the heart’s muscle tissue will begin to die. Heart attack signs and symptoms vary from person to person, but most involve: Chest discomfort. Most people experience pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain in the center of the chest. The discomfort may last for more than a few minutes or come and go—and it may be only mild. Upper body discomfort. This can feel like pain or other discomfort in one or both arms or in the back, neck or jaw. Shortness of breath, with or without chest pain. Other possible heart attack warning signs include breaking out in cold sweats and feeling dizzy or sick to your stomach. No time to spare It’s vital to get treatment right away for a heart attack. Here’s why: Specialists at the hospital can perform treatments to open blocked arteries and limit heart damage. You have a better chance of receiving this lifesaving care and making a full recovery if you get help quickly. So if you even think you might be having a heart attack: What to do when you think it’s a heart attack Call 911. Remember: Every minute that goes by while you decide what to do could affect your chances of surviving a heart attack with minimal heart damage and a better quality of life. Don’t try to drive yourself or someone else to the hospital. An ambulance is usually faster. And emergency responders can begin lifesaving treatments on the way. Don’t delay because of denial or embarrassment. You shouldn’t wait to see if your symptoms get better or turn out to be indigestion. That’s a risk you shouldn’t take with your one-andonly heart. Prioritize your heart’s health A healthy lifestyle may help you prevent a heart attack. If you want to schedule a checkup with a cardiologist, call the CMH Heart Institute at 417-328-6040.
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