How To Survive A Heart Attack

Need to know how to survive a heart attack? Heart attacks sometimes happen without warning. A plaque in a coronary artery can rupture, which in turn causes a blood clot to form. The blood clot can lead to blockage of the artery. The section of the heart that's being supplied with blood is now blocked, and it will begin to die. This is what defines a heart attack, also known as a myocardial infarction. Knowing the symptoms when one occurs greatly increases the chance of survival.

1. The first thing to do if you suspect a heart attack is to get to a hospital. Time is truly of the essence in these situations as there are fast acting drugs that can save your life.
2. Don't expect a heart attack to be a literal chest grabber. Nothing can be further from the truth. Mild chest pain, strong acid reflux, shortness of breath or a numb sensation in the upper left arm are all symptoms. Don't ignore them.
3. Don't write off the known sensations as symptoms of another problem. This is, by far, the biggest mistake people make when having a myocardial infarction. The time to go is when the symptoms are being experienced, not later. The risk for far more serious issues, even death, increases with delay.
4. Call 911. Why? Because paramedics and ambulances carry medications and experience that can minimize damage and improve the odds of surviving a heart attack. Don't drive yourself unless you absolutely have to.

Education is the best defense against having a heart attack. Know your family history. Understand that untreated high cholesterol will block the arteries. Being aware of the most common signs of a heart attack is the most important information you need to survive a heart attack.

Resources:

National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute