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What is a heart attack?

A heart attack occurs when one or more of the coronary arteries become blocked, preventing blood from getting to part of the heart muscle. Without blood, this muscle becomes damaged, making it harder for the heart to pump. Minutes count, so the sooner you recognize the symptoms of a heart attack and get medical help, the more heart muscle you may be saving. Signs and symptoms may be mild or severe. If you notice any of the signs or symptoms of a heart attack, DO NOT WAIT- CALL 911 and insist on Saint Vincent.

Signs and symptoms of a heart attack:

• Pain or discomfort
• Lasts more than a few minutes
• Does not get better with rest
• May radiate across your chest, to your back, jaw, down one or both of your arms
• May come and go
• May be severe, crushing pressure, tightness or squeezing, like a rope around your chest
• May be a mild pressure or a dull pain
• May feel like indigestion, a burning sensation in the middle of your chest

Other signs and symptoms may include

• Sweating (cool, clammy feeling)
• Nausea or vomiting
• Feeling weak or lightheaded
• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
• Feeling like something is not right, feeling anxious
• Pale or gray skin color
• Extreme fatigue

What to do if you have any symptoms of a heart attack

• Call 911; do not drive yourself to a hospital.
• Take aspirin or nitroglycerin as prescribed by your doctor.
• Rest in a comfortable position.
  

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The Saint Vincent Heart Center – We know how to treat people.

For more information about the Saint Vincent Heart Center, please call
814-452-7243.