Warning Signs of Heart Attack and Stroke

Warning Signs of Heart Attack and Stroke

Some heart attacks are sudden and intense, but most heart attacks start slowly, with mild pain or discomfort. Here are some of the signs that can mean a heart attack is happening.

Chest discomfort. Most heart attacks involve discomfort in the center of the chest that last more than a few minutes, or that goes away and comes back. It can feel like uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain.

Discomfort in other areas of the upper body. Symptoms can include pain or discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw or stomach.

Shortness of breath. This feeling often comes along with chest discomfort. But it can occur before the chest discomfort.

Other signs. These may include breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea or lightheadedness. If you or someone you’re with have chest discomfort, especially with one or more of the other signs, don’t wait longer than a few minutes (no more than 5 minutes) before calling for help. Get to a hospital right away.)

If you’re the one having symptoms, and you can’t access emergency medical services, have someone drive you to the hospital right away. Don’t drive yourself, unless you have absolutely no other option.

STROKE WARNING SIGNS

Sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm or legs, especially on one side of the body.

Sudden confusion, trouble speaking or understanding.

Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes.

Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination.

Sudden, severe headache with no known cause.

Not all of these warning signs occur in every stroke. If some start to occur, don’t wait. Get help immediately.

Source: American Heart Association fighting Heart Disease and Stroke

Note:   This information is not intended to be used as a substitute for professional medical advise, diagnosis or treatment.   If you or someone you know have any of the symptoms mentioned above, it is advisable to seek professional help.

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