Symptoms, Stats, and Treatment for a Heart Attack

A heart attack happens when the heart can’t get oxygen due a blockage in the flow of oxygen-rich blood to a section of heart muscle. If blood flow isn’t restored quickly, the section of heart muscle begins to die.

Heart attacks are a leading killer of both men and women in the United States. If you experience the symptoms of a heart attack, it is crucial to get treatment quickly as this can save your life and limit damage to your heart.

What are the symptoms of a heart attack?

The most common warning signs of a heart attack for both men and women are:

Chest pain or discomfort. This discomfort is usually in the center or left side of the chest and lasts more than a few minutes or goes away and comes back. It can feel like pressure, squeezing, fullness, heartburn or indigestion.
Upper body discomfort. Symptoms include discomfort in one or both arms, the back, shoulders, neck, jaw, or upper part of the stomach.
Shortness of breath. This may be your only symptom, or it may occur before or along with other symptoms.

Symptoms, Stats, and Treatment for a Heart Attack

The infographic below by Cardiac Direct summarizes the essential data relating to heart attacks, and provides advice on recognizing the symptoms and getting treatment.
Cardiac Direct