Heart Attack - Signs And Symptoms You Must Not Ignore!

The survival rate of a person experiencing a heart attack depends on the treatment given during the first three minutes after the attack. The first thing to do in such cases is to make the person lie down on his back with his head elevated and call for medical help. Check for breathing and pulse and begin chest compressions if the patient is not conscious. Kneel down beside the patient s chest and interlock your fingers. Ensure that your elbows are straight and place your palms on the patient s chest. Press downwards at the rate of 100 to 120 compressions per minute.

Unless the person is allergic to aspirin or has been told not to take this medicine, a person who is facing a heart attack should be given an aspirin to chew. Aspirin acts as a blood thinner and prevents the formations of clots in the blood. This prevents the clogging of arteries. Chew the aspirin, do not swallow it.

Heart attack may build up slowly or come on instantaneously. In most cases, the former is true. Chest pain is one of the most common early signs of a heart attack. Unlike those caused by indigestion or heartburn, in such cases, chest pain is not relieved by rest and worsens with physical exertion or stress. If you experience persistent pains in your chest similar to those caused by heartburn, consult a doctor immediately.

Symptoms of a heart attack are usually visible much before the actual heart attack. One of the most characteristic signs is a sharp pain on the left side of the chest that radiates towards the shoulder and arm. You may also experience shortness of breath and may feel nauseous. Do not ignore any of these signs, but see a doctor at once, if you begin experiencing these symptoms.