Warning Signs: Recognize These Heart Attack Signals to Help Save a Life

Typically, in the movies and on TV, older men suffer from heart attacks - we watch them clutch their chests as they collapse to the ground in pain. In reality, heart attacks can strike anyone when damage to the heart, such as a lack of oxygen or blood, causes it to stop working.

The American Red Cross is educating the public about heart attack signals so that they are prepared to respond to their family members, friends and co-workers in this potentially fatal situation.

Signals of a Heart Attack

• Severe chest pain lasting 3-5 minutes that does not go away, or goes away and comes back. The pain may range from mild to an unbearable crushing sensation, and the victim may describe it as pressure, squeezing, tightness or aching in the chest.
• The pain may spread to the arms, shoulders, neck, jaw or back and will become constant. Resting or taking medicine will not alleviate the pain.
• The victim may have trouble breathing - you will notice that their breathing is faster than normal and noisy. At this point, the body is trying to get much-needed oxygen to the heart.
• The victim's face may appear pale and damp with sweat, and the victim may become nauseous and dizzy.

How Can You Help a Heart Attack Victim?

• Recognize the signals of a heart attack. Make sure your family members, friends and co-workers are educated about the warning signs as well.
• Call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number immediately for help.
• Convince the victim to stop activity and rest; comfort the victim.
• Monitor the victim's condition and try to obtain additional information about their condition.
• Assist with medication, if prescribed.
• Be prepared to give CPR and to use an automated external defibrillator (AED).

To learn more about how to enroll in American Red Cross CPR and AED training courses, click here