Am I Experiencing a Heart Attack?

Posted by: Tampa Cardio

On: May 3, 2017

This is likely one of the most terrifying topics you will ever look up. Heart disease is the leading cause of death in this USA coming in at 1 out of 4.

 

If you are having severe chest pain that’s an obvious sign of bodily distress. The problem with diagnosing a heart attack is that many signs and symptoms are not that blatant.

 

A heart attack doesn’t always produce pains. It can also be detected by noticing shortness of breath, muscle soreness in the chest, heartburn, painful hiccups, arm numbness and neck or upper back pain.

 

While a heart attack can happen to virtually anyone age regardless, those over 65 are a higher risk group. Added to that if you have a family history which includes high blood pressure, high cholesterol, heart disease, obesity, or smoking, your chances are compounded.

 

Don’t ignore symptoms and just hope they will fade. It is important to see your doctor for tests and a proper diagnosis.

 

Anxiety is often overlooked. Extreme anxiety (palpitations, chest pain, dizziness, agitation) can signal an impending heart attack. It is important to go to the ER. – High BP and Pulse are also signs.

 

In women, chest pain may or may not accompany a heart attack. Heart-related chest pain is centered under the breastbone just left of center. It may feel like a squeezing or extreme pressure. Women may also interpret it as a burning sensation.

 

A wheezing cough – when the heart fails, fluid may fill the lungs. This can cause a coughing or wheezing, even producing a bloody phlegm.

 

Fatigue and or weakness – many people report in the few days leading up to a major heart episode that they felt abnormally tired to the point of being nonfunctional in their daily lives. This may also be a warning sign. If you are tired beyond what you really should be, consult your doctor.

 

Nausea and lack of appetite – Very common in women. If this accompanies fatigue, see your doctor.

 

Radiating pain – you may feel pain in the jaw area, arms, shoulders, neck and even abdomen. The pain may come and go, but if it doesn’t go away and is accompanied by other symptoms, seek medical attention.

 

Sweating – Sweating for no reason can be a sign of heart attack. If it accompanies other symptoms, see your doctor right away.

If you believe you are experiencing a heart attack, please dial 911 immediately.

 

If you live in the Tampa bay area and are looking for a great cardiology team, please call us at 813-975-2800. Patient comfort and care are a priority here at Tampa Cardiovascular Associates. We look forward to talking with you. www.tampacardio.com.

 

 

 

Posted by: Tampa Cardio

On: 03/05/2017

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