Quick Heart Attack Fact Sheet 

A heart attack can occur at any time, anywhere, and in almost anyone. Heart attacks do not discriminate based on age, race, or even overall health.

Because of this, it is important to know the signs so that you can get help quickly for someone who may be desperately in need and unable to help themselves. This could be a loved one, a stranger, or even you.

A heart attack can occur immediately and without any apparent cause. However, symptoms can also build up slowly and present without warning, which can make it too late for many people to realize that something is wrong. Being able to recognize the signs of a heart attack is important, especially if you are at an increased risk.

In the US, heart attacks are the leading cause of death among men and women.

However, among those who are with others when a heart attack occurs, the survival rate is higher. They are also more likely to recognize the signs of a heart attack and get immediate medical attention. Although there is no one set of exact markers that can be used to identify a heart attack, recognizing the signs can help.

The following signs could signal an oncoming heart attack and require emergency medical attention:

CHEST DISCOMFORT: Many people associate chest discomfort with a heart attack. However, according to many heart attack survivors, this condition is not as painful as it sounds. It can actually be referred to as “chest pressure,” which is characterized by the patient squeezing and fullness.

NUMBNESS: If you’re about to have a heart attack, you may have heard that the left arm will feel numb or tingling. However, this is not the case for all heart attack patients. They have actually experienced this discomfort in various parts of the body, including the shoulders, back, neck, stomach, and even one or both arms.

BREATHING ISSUES: Some people who are already experiencing a heart attack may also feel tired and unable to breathe properly before the attack. This symptom, which can appear several months before the onset of a heart attack, is usually more common in women.

OTHER SYMPTOMS: Other common symptoms that can occur before a heart attack include nausea and vomiting. However, some people also report experiencing indigestion or heartburn before a heart attack. This can be very dangerous since people tend to mistakenly believe that these symptoms are related to heartburn.

The physicians at Tampa Cardiovascular Associates can help you manage your health and heart-based conditions helping to prevent and stave off cardiac events. Give us a call at 813-975-2800 to schedule your appointment today.

If you believe someone is currently possibly having a heart attack get medical attention ASAP. Call 911 or go directly to the emergency room.