The Heart and Stroke Foundation South Africa warns that while sudden chest pain is the most common symptom of a heart attack, it is not the only sign, and the onset of a heart attack can also take place without chest pain.
If you experience one or more of the symptoms listed below contact your doctor, ER service or ask somebody to take you to the nearest hospital’s emergency facility.
- An overwhelming sense of anxiety
- Shortness of breath
- Feeling lightheaded and dizzy
- Abdominal pain, feeling sick, or vomiting
- Spread of pain to shoulders, arms, neck or jaw
- Abnormal sweating
- Chest pain that might feel like pressure, tightness, or squeezing
The CDC (Centre for Disease Control and Prevention) warns that a heart attack happens when a part of the heart muscle does not get enough oxygen. The greater the delay in getting treatment to restore blood flow, the greater the damage to the heart muscle. It is therefore very important to seek help from a medical professional as soon as possible should any symptoms be experienced.
Sources:
- https://www.heartfoundation.co.za/signs-of-a-heart-attack/
- https://www.cdc.gov/heartdisease/heart_attack.htm
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