Emergencies
Heart Attack
Myocardial Infarction coronary artery blockage cutting blood to the heart muscle.
Overview
A heart attack (myocardial infarction) occurs when blood flow through a coronary artery is blocked — usually by a blood clot forming on top of a ruptured plaque. Heart muscle begins dying within minutes without oxygen. Every second of delay increases the area of permanent damage. Prompt recognition and calling emergency services dramatically improves survival and recovery.
Recognize the Signs
- 1
Crushing, squeezing or pressure-like chest pain lasting more than a few minutes
- 2
Pain radiating to the left arm, shoulder, neck, jaw, or back
- 3
Shortness of breath, with or without chest discomfort
- 4
Cold sweat, nausea, or lightheadedness
- 5
Sudden fatigue or sense of impending doom
- 6
In women: atypical symptoms like jaw pain, upper back pain, unusual fatigue
First Aid Steps
What to Avoid
Do not leave the person alone at any time
Do not give food, water, or any medication other than aspirin
Do not let them "walk it off" or drive themselves to hospital
Do not apply heat pads or massage the chest
Get Help Now
Call emergency services the moment chest pain, pressure, or tightening lasts more than 2 minutes, especially with any radiating pain, sweating, or shortness of breath.
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