A heart attack can be a very serious, and potentially fatal, medical issue. It is also usually terrifying both for the person experiencing it, and any onlookers or untrained assistants. The American Heart Association (AHA) is keen to promote the signs and symptoms of heart attacks to help you identify any warning signals early on—this has the potential to save the life of the sufferer.
What is a heart attack?
Your heart is a major organ, and it requires oxygen to function correctly. Oxygen is delivered around the body by your blood, and most of the time, your body is excellent at making sure the correct level of oxygen is where it needs to be. If, however, something goes wrong, and the oxygen-laden blood is unable to flow through your heart, you will suffer a heart attack, also known as a myocardial infarction.
What are the causes?
Put simply, a heart attack is caused by the blood supply to the heart being cut off, so the organ can’t receive the oxygen it needs. One of the most common causes is arteriosclerosis, a buildup of plaque along the wall of your blood vessels. High levels of cholesterol usually cause arteriosclerosis and, in extreme cases, may require surgery to rectify.
What are the signs?
A heart attack can be tricky to detect, especially if you have not experienced one before. There are several signs to watch out for, and understanding and recognizing these could save a life. You can find out more information at CPR classes or a first aid class, which can provide a closer insight.
Common symptoms include:
- Cold sweats
- Fatigue
- Shortness of breath
- Lightheadedness or sudden dizziness
- Nausea, indigestion, abdominal pain or heartburn
- Pressure, pain or tightness, or a squeezing or aching sensation in your chest or arms. This may then spread to your back, neck, or jaw
What can I do?
The best first aid for a heart attack is CPR. It is crucial that you get blood to the heart as soon as possible. CPR should only be carried out by someone trained, and CPR classes are a great way to make sure you are ready. An ambulance should be called, and it is important that you tell the operator you suspect a heart attack.
If you find someone passed out, check their pulse and breathing as the first priority. CPR is only necessary if both are missing. You could do more harm than good if it is not essential.
The best thing you can do to help someone having a heart attack is to be prepared. CPR training has the potential to save lives and is a skill you should consider equipping yourself with. Not only will you learn how to administer CPR, you will become confident in using equipment such as an AED, and be more effective in an emergency, Training may also help you to identify the signs earlier, and this can be crucial.
