What Does a Heart Attack Look Like?

Uncategorized  |  March 31, 2020

Unfortunately, a lot of people know someone who had a heart attack or they had one themselves so they are familiar with its symptoms. Some heart attacks happen suddenly while others start slowly and cause pain and discomfort at the beginning. People can experience symptoms for hours before even realizing that they are having a heart attack.

Luckily, some lifestyle changes can reduce the risk of a heart attack. Regular physical activity, following a well-balanced diet and staying mentally positive can help a loved one who is trying to avoid this health problem or is recovering after a heart attack.

Being familiar with the most common symptoms of a heart attack can save you or some else’s life.

Chest discomfort – Although chest discomfort is one of the most common signs, it is not the same for everyone. Some people experience squeezing, while others a feeling of fullness.

Pain or discomfort throughout the body – People who are having a heart attack don’t have to experience pain only in the chest area. In fact, they can feel soreness in the neck, arms, jaw or back.

Shortness of breath – Most people do not recognize this as a sign of a heart attack, but a breathing problem can signal that a heart attack is happening, especially when it occurs along with other symptoms.

Nausea – Vomiting, cold sweats and nausea are also signs of a heart attack.

There are several types of heart attack:

NSTEMI: This type occurs when blood flow to the heart through a coronary artery is restricted but not completely blocked.

Demand Ischemia: It occurs when the heart needs more oxygen than is available in the body’s supply.

Silent Heart Attacks: Some people experience a heart attack without even realizing it. These are called silent heart attacks.

Coronary Artery Spasm: It happens due to restricted blood flow through the artery.

Cardiac Arrest: This is a term used when a person’s heart stops beating.

Detecting a heart attack on time can help prevent damage to the heart, brain and body. If you or someone else in your environment is experiencing these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.

Comfort Keepers Can Help

Our trained caregivers can help you or your loved one maintain heart health by providing medication reminders, transportation to doctor’s appointments and supporting prescribed exercise regimes. They can also prepare tasty meals rich in nutrients relative to heart health.

If you wish to learn more about home care services Comfort Keepers offers in Victoria, BC, please contact our office today.

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