HEART ATTACKS. WARNING SIGNS.

Heart attacks take place when a section of the cardiac muscle dies due to an obstruction of the arteries that supply blood to that area of the heart.

It is the biggest cause of mortality worldwide, in both men and women.

WARNING SYMPTOMS.

• Acute pain that is located in the centre of the chest, described as penetrating.

• This type of pain has never been felt before.

• Crushing pain in the chest, almost as if someone was stepping on the chest.

• A type of pain that extends to the left arm, jaw, neck and back.

• Dizziness, vomiting, general weakness.

• Extreme and inexplicable low blood pressure, regardless of taking medication for it or not. 

• Pain in the stomach that the patient feels as it is chocking him/her.

• Breathing difficulties.

These are the most common symptoms, however, a significant proportion of cases, particularly in women, a heart attack presents itself as shortness of breath and extreme anxiety as opposed to any of the symptoms listed above.

Even though chest pains can sometimes be caused by heartburn due to esophageal-gastric reflux, muscle pains, etc. precautions should always be taken especially if these continue to worsen or do not subside.

Always remember that although heart attacks do not come with a warning, patients that suffer from cardiovascular pathologies, hypertension, diabetes, etc. have to be more vigilant in case any of these symptoms present themselves.

Lastly, I would like to recommend always having an aspirin within reach to either chew on or place under the tongue. This will always help to thin the blood while medical help is on its way.

Taking swift action after recognising these symptoms can save our lives.

Dr J. Hurtado Martínez
Medical Director of HealthSalus