Porter Regional Hospital shares Signs and Symptoms of Heart Attack

Porter Regional Hospital is a certified Chest Pain Center with Primary PCI Accreditation. This is the highest level of accreditation from the Society of Cardiovascular Patient Care SCPC). An Accredited Chest Pain Center's evidence-based, protocol-driven and systematic approach to cardiac patient care allows clinicians to reduce time to treatment during the critical early stages of a heart attack. Accredited facilities better monitor patients when it is not initially clear whether or not a patient is having a coronary event. Such monitoring ensures patients are neither sent home too early nor needlessly admitted.

Heart disease is the No. 1 cause of death in both men and women in the United States, claiming half a million lives annually. Many people with the disease show no signs or symptoms, which is why regular checkups with your primary care provider are essential to your health.

Early Heart Attack Warning Signs. Recognize the Symptoms and Take Action.

One or more of the symptoms listed below are present in nearly half of all heart attacks. They usually appear within 24 hours before the acute attack, but can begin two to three weeks before.

Classic Heart Attack Symptoms

• Chest discomfort
• Chest pressure
• Chest ache
• Chest burning
• Chest fullness or tightness

“Other” Common Symptoms

• Weakness or fatigue
• Clammy or cold sweats
• Nausea, indigestion or vomiting
• Dizziness, nervousness or confusion
• Shortness of breath
• Pain in your arms, back, jaw, neck or shoulders
• Feeling of doom

Fast Action Saves Lives!
Most importantly, if you or someone you are with begins to have chest discomfort especially with one or more of the “other symptoms” of a heart attack, call 9-1-1 right away; don’t go to your doctor’s office or wait for an appointment. Call 9-1-1 immediately! Do not transport by car if an ambulance is available.

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