Did you know that in the United States, someone has a heart attack every 40 seconds? In honor of American Heart Month, we want to share some information on what to look for if you or someone you know may be having a heart attack.
A heart attack happens when the flow of blood to the heart is severely reduced or blocked. Most often, this is due to a buildup in the arteries from excess fat or a blood clot.
Some heart attacks come on immediately, but others can have less noticeable signs and symptoms that last for hours, days, or even weeks. Here are some common symptoms to look out for:
- Pain or discomfort in the chest
- Lightheadedness, nausea, or vomiting
- Jaw, neck, or back pain
- Discomfort or pain in arm or shoulder (usually the left arm, but can affect both arms)
- Shortness of breath
- Cold sweat
- Fatigue
- Heartburn or indigestion
If you think you are having a heart attack, call 911 immediately or go to your closest ER.
Recovery
After a heart-related issue, it’s important to work on your recovery slowly and with trusted specialists that can get you back to your daily life in a healthy way. Our team of staff in Cardiac Rehab provides the tools needed for strength, rehabilitation, and prevention after a heart attack or related issue. The Cardiac Rehab gym on the first floor of the Main Hospital allows patients to rebuild their strength and heart health through exercise with constant supervision and guidance.
