What Is a Heart Attack? Author : americanheart.org

Every 36 seconds, someone dies from heart and blood vessel diseases, America’s No. 1 killer. Since most of those deaths are from coronary heart disease — about 452,000 each year — it’s important to learn all you can about heart attack. Don’t ignore heart problems. It’s a matter of life and death! For example, you should know the warning signs so you can get help right away, either for yourself or someone close to you. Acting quickly can save many, many lives! Some heart attacks are sudden and intense. But most start slowly, with mild pain or discomfort. Here are some of the signs that can mean a heart
attack is happening:
• Uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain in the center of your chest. It lasts more than a few minutes, or goes away and comes back.
• Pain or discomfort in one or both arms, your back, neck, jaw or stomach.
• Shortness of breath with or without chest discomfort.
• Other signs such as breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea or lightheadedness.
If you or someone you’re with has chest discomfort, especially with one or more of the
other signs, don’t wait more than five minutes before calling for help. Call 9-1-1 or the emergency medical services (EMS) in your area (fire department or ambulance). Get to a hospital right away.

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