How to Detect a Heart Attack

A heart attack can strike anybody at anytime, regardless of age or gender. It is essential to be well aware of the symptoms of a heart attack because the first hour of an attack is the most crucial one and identifying the symptoms and seeking treatment can make a big difference.

A sudden intense pain in the chest is not necessarily an attack. It could be angina. Angina is triggered by exertion, stress or fear. The pain starts in the left side of the chest and spreads to the throat, neck, jaw, left shoulder and arm. Angina is usually relieved with rest and a dose of nitroglycerine. However, remember, angina pectoris could mean that you are at an increased risk of heart attacks.

A heart attack usually starts slowly with slight pain and discomfort, which most people tend to ignore. Some people tend to feel dizzy. The pain gradually becomes intense with pressure and discomfort in the chest. The pain radiates from the chest to the neck, jaw, shoulder and arm. A person who is having a heart attack may be sweaty and short of breath. Nausea and lightheadedness are also common symptoms of a heart attack.

Sometimes a heart attack is silent. This means that there is no chest pain. The person experiences atypical symptoms like nausea, heartburn, sweating and lightheadedness.

A person who is experiencing any of these symptoms needs to get immediate medical attention. A doctor will be able to examine the patient and run a series of tests including EGC or EKG to diagnose a heart attack.

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