Heart attack is a serious medical emergency that occurs when the blood flow that brings oxygen to the heart muscle is severely reduced or blocked. A heart attack can cause permanent damage to the heart muscle and can be fatal if not treated promptly.

However, many people do not recognized the signs and symptoms of a heart attack, which can delay treatment and increase the risk of complications. In this article, we will discuss the common signs and symptoms of a heart attack and what to do if you or someone you know experiences them.

What are the common signs and symptoms of a heart attack?

The signs and symptoms of a heart attack can vary from person to person, but the most common ones include:.

Chest pain or discomfort

The most common symptom of a heart attack is chest pain or discomfort, which may feel like pressure, tightness, squeezing or fullness in the chest that lasts for more than a few minutes or goes away and comes back.

The pain may also radiate to the shoulders, arms, neck, jaw, back or stomach.

Shortness of breath

Another common sign of a heart attack is shortness of breath, which may occur with or without chest pain.

You may feel breathless when you are resting or doing simple activities, or you may feel like you are running out of breath when you are exercising or doing physical activity.

Lightheadedness or dizziness

If you are having a heart attack, you may feel lightheaded or dizzy, which may be caused by low blood pressure or poor blood flow to the brain. You may also feel faint or pass out.

Nausea or vomiting

Some people may experience nausea or vomiting during a heart attack, which may be mistaken for indigestion or flu. You may also feel like you have a stomach ache or heartburn.

Cold sweat

If you are having a heart attack, you may feel cold sweat or clammy skin, which may be accompanied by a feeling of dread or anxiety.

What to do if you or someone you know is having a heart attack?

If you or someone you know is experiencing any of the above symptoms, it is important to call for emergency medical services right away. Do not wait to see if the symptoms go away, as prompt treatment can save your life.

While waiting for the ambulance to arrive:.

Remain calm and try to keep the person calm and comfortable.
If the person is not allergic to aspirin, give them an aspirin to chew and swallow, as it can help reduce the risk of blood clots.
If the person becomes unconscious, check for breathing and pulse and begin CPR if necessary.

How to prevent a heart attack?

There are several lifestyle changes you can make to reduce your risk of having a heart attack:.

Quit smoking
Eat a healthy diet that is low in saturated and trans fats, salt, and added sugars
Exercise regularly
Maintain a healthy weight
Control your blood pressure and cholesterol levels
Manage stress

If you have a family history of heart disease or other risk factors, such as diabetes, it is important to talk to your doctor about your risk and any necessary preventive measures.

Conclusion

A heart attack is a serious medical emergency that requires prompt treatment. Recognizing the signs and symptoms of a heart attack can help you get the care you need and avoid complications.

If you or someone you know is experiencing chest pain, shortness of breath, lightheadedness or any of the other symptoms described in this article, call for emergency medical services right away.