HEART ATTACK WARNING

Warning signs of heart attack can be different from person to person, they may not always be sudden (often how hollywood portrays them) and a lot of people will only suffer mild chest pain and some none at all.

So how can you know when you or someone you know is having a heart attack?  The Heart Foundation has recently launched a campaign to educate all Australians on the warning signs of heart attack.  The key to survival rates is early treatment so the sooner people realise something is wrong the better their chances are.

Warning signs can include a feeling of tightness or heaviness on their chest and a choking feeling in their throat.  Their arms can feel heavy or useless.  Other warning signs include pain, pressure, heaviness or tightness in one or more parts of their upper body, including back, neck, shoulders, jaw and arms.  Sweating, dizziness, nausea and vomiting are also warning signs and some people might just feel generally unwell "not quite right".

It is important to be aware of these early symptoms and to take immediate action by calling an ambulance.  Don't try to drive yourself to the hospital - you could end up hurting someone else and delay getting vital treatment that can be administered by paramedics on the way to hospital.  The earlier the treatment the less damage that will be done to the muscles around the heart.  Talk to your family and friends make sure they all learn the early warning signs, it may just save a life.

If you would like more information visit the Heart Foundation's website.