A heart attack is aloss of blood flow to the muscle of the heart, often caused by atherosclerosis of the coronary arteries. If it is prolonged, a heart attack may cause permanent loss of heart muscle.
Symptoms
- Uncomfortable pressure, fullness, squeezing or pain in the center of the chest.
- Pai spreading to the shoulders, neck or arms.
- Chest discomfort
- Anxiety, nervousness and/or cold, sweaty skin.
- Paleness
- Increased or irregular heart rate.
- Feeling of impending doom
Immediate Treatment
- Call the emergancy services
- Give asprin to thin the blood
- Be prepared to give CPR
Emergency services may recommend the patient to take nitroglycerin tablets or patches, in case these are available, particularly if they had prior heart attacks or angina.