Heart Attack Warning Signs
Did you know that many people who are having a heart attack don’t even realize it? A heart attack can happen at any time and at any age. However, because there are many people who don’t know the warning signs, as many as 50% of sudden cardiac deaths occur outside of the hospital. It’s extremely important to know the signs of a heart attack and to get help immediately.
If you or someone you love is experiencing any sign or symptoms of a heart attack, call 9-1-1 immediately.
The cardiologists at Physicians Regional Healthcare System want you to know that every minute matters in a heart attack. Do not delay seeking help if you suspect the possibility of a heart attack. Do not try to drive yourself to the emergency room. Instead, call 9-1-1 and wait for help to come to you.
How Do I Know If I’m Having a Heart Attack?
Heart attacks are not always sudden and intense like they are in the movies. Many heart attacks start slowly with only mild pain or discomfort. Some people do not experience chest pain at all, but instead have other signs. Signs of a heart attack may include:
Chest Discomfort
- Uncomfortable pressure, heaviness
- Squeezing, tightness of the chest
- Discomfort lasts more than two minutes (could be intermittent)
Discomfort In Distant Areas Of The Upper Body
- One or both arms
- Back, neck or jaw
- Stomach or abdomen
Other Signs (With Or Without Chest Discomfort)
- Shortness of breath
- Cold sweat
- Nausea, vomiting
- Stomach pain that may feel like heartburn, the flu or a stomach ulcer
- Light-headedness
- Extreme weakness/fatigue
Click here to take an online heart risk assessment to determine if you are at risk for a heart attack.
Have Chest Pain? Call 9-1-1!
We cannot emphasize enough how critical every second is when it comes to a heart attack. It is important to get into the emergency room as fast as possible, and the best way to do this is by calling 9-1-1 (as opposed to going into the emergency room yourself). When you call first-responders, the emergency cardiac providers at Physicians Regional Healthcare System know you’re on your way and can prepare for your arrival.
Calling 9-1-1 will allow you to receive treatment faster than going yourself.
Unfortunately, more than 50 percent of all patients experiencing chest pain walk into the emergency department rather than calling 9-1-1. If you find you find yourself asking whether or not you should go to the ER or call 9-1-1, don’t waste valuable time and risk delaying treatment.
Here’s what happens when you call 9-1-1:
- 9-1-1 dispatchers are trained to not only locate you quickly, but to also assist with emergent treatment. In many areas of Florida, emergency medical services (EMS) are able to diagnose a heart attack with an electrocardiogram (ECG), which helps expedite the treatment process.
- Arriving by ambulance to one of our two Naples area emergency departments helps ensure that you won’t have to wait to be seen by a doctor.
- Finally, EMS is able to radio ahead to the emergency department that you are on your way. This advance notice enables staff to be on full alert when you come through our doors with heart attack symptoms.
Visit an Accredited Chest Pain Center In Naples
To find a cardiologist at an Accredited Chest Pain Center near you, contact one of our two locations in the Naples area. You can also find a provider online.
Call (239) 354-6000 | Collier Blvd
Call (239) 348-4000 | Pine Ridge