Heart Attack Warning Signs
Though many people in Santa Rosa County may not realize it, heart attacks oftentimes do not occur as suddenly and dramatically as they're depicted in movies. In reality, there are often smaller, more subtle warning signs leading up to sudden cardiac arrest.
The American Heart Association reports more than 350,000 cardiac arrests occur outside of the hospital each year – a fact that suggests many people may not act soon enough on the early warning signs of a heart attack. Recognizing the warning signs of a heart attack could save your life or the life of a loved one. When it comes to your heart, every second matters.
If you or someone you love is experiencing any sign or symptom of a heart attack, call 9-1-1 immediately and wait for the ambulance to arrive.
Common Heart Attack Symptoms
Please note that many heart attack experiences are different. For instance, many people experience extreme chest pain while others experience no chest pain at all.
- Chest discomfort or chest pain – You may experience uncomfortable pressure or heaviness in the chest in the initial stages of a heart attack. There may be a tight ache or a squeezing sensation. The discomfort may come and go.
- Stomach or abdomen pain – A heartburn-like feeling may manifest in your upper abdomen when you are experiencing a heart attack.
- Anxiety – It is common for people to experience an overwhelming sense of panic or fear for no apparent reason.
- Cold sweat – You may experience a sudden sweat with cold, clammy skin.
- Back, neck or jaw pain – Tightness or pain can be experienced in these areas while having a heart attack.
- Discomfort In one or both arms – Pain/discomfort can extend to arms. It is not uncommon for pain to be experienced on just one side of the body.
- Nausea or vomiting – You may feel sick to your stomach or vomit.
- Extreme weakness/fatigue – You may have sudden fatigue or weakness; this may persist for several days.
- Shortness of breath – You may feel the need to gasp for air, or it may feel like a struggle to get a deep breath.
- Irregular heartbeat – You may experience your heart beating irregularly or feel as though your heart is "skipping a beat." Or, you may be extremely aware of your heartbeat.
Please remember, a heart attack is not always a sudden and intense experience as seen in movies or television shows. Warning signs should be taken seriously and immediate help should be sought.
How to Reduce Your Risk of a Heart Attack
The cardiac team at Santa Rosa Medical Center in Milton, FL, takes heart attack prevention very seriously. There are many ways to prevent heart disease through adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle. Here are some ways you can avoid heart problems:
- Eat a heart-healthy diet by avoiding excess sugars, fast food and fatty foods. Include many fruits and vegetables, lean meats, fish and whole grains in your diet.
- Get moving! Studies show that exercising about 30 minutes on most days of the week is helpful in preventing heart disease and other serious conditions.
- Do not smoke or use tobacco.
- Manage your stress in healthy ways, such as exercising or journaling.
- Get regular check-ups with your doctor.
Find a Cardiologist Near You In Milton, FL
Need help finding a doctor? Search the online directory.
Click here to take an online heart risk assessment to determine if you are at risk for a heart attack.