A heart attack can occur when you least expect it, but there are warning signs that you should be familiar with. Although some episodes are intense and abrupt, most start in a slow manner with minimal pain or discomfort.
When should I call for emergency assistance?
- Chest discomfort – many cases of heart attack involve uneasiness in the middle of the chest that can persist for a few minutes or subsides and recurs. It can be described as squeezing, pressure, pain or fullness.
- Discomfort in other parts of the upper body – this can include discomfort or pain in one or both arms, jaw, back or in the abdomen.
- Shortness of breath with or without discomfort in the chest
- Other indications can include breaking out in cold sweat, lightheadedness or nausea
Is there a difference between men and women?
Similar with men, the usual symptoms of a heart attack among women is chest pain or discomfort. The difference with women is that they are expected than men to suffer some of the other usual symptoms particularly shortness of breath, jaw or back pain and nausea and/or vomiting.
What should I do?
If you are familiar with the symptoms, it is vital to bear in mind that the individual should be assessed even if you are not certain that it is a heart attack. Prompt action can save a life. In such cases, do not delay and call for emergency assistance right away.
Calling for emergency assistance ensures the fastest way for the individual to receive life-saving treatment. Once the emergency team arrives on the scene, treatment can be started.
Disclaimer / More Information
The information posted on this page on heart attack is for learning and educational purposes only. To learn to recognize and manage sudden medical emergencies including a heart attack, register for first aid training at one of our training centers located throughout Canada. The training centers are located in Edmonton, Calgary, Vancouver, Kelowna, Surrey, Saskatoon, Winnipeg, Toronto, Ottawa and Halifax.