Learning this important information could save your life or the life of a loved one.
WEST COLUMBIA, SC — Did you know that heart attack symptoms can appear hours or even weeks before a heart attack? The American College of Cardiology’s Early Heart Attack Care™ (EHAC) program teaches the early warning signs of a heart attack and who is at risk. Learning this important information could save your life or the life of a loved one.
Early Signs and Symptoms
What are the risk factors?
- Chest pain, pressure, burning, pain or tightness – it can come and go
- A family history of cardiovascular disease
- high blood pressure
- Overweight or obese
- Sedentary lifestyle
- use of tobacco products
- Metabolic diseases, diabetes or other diseases
- In women, it may also involve birth control pills, a history of preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, or a low birth weight baby
What are the differences between men and women?
- Men usually experience pain and numbness in the left arm or side of the chest, but women may experience these symptoms on the right side.
- Women can feel completely exhausted, drained, dizzy or nauseous.
- Women may experience upper back pain that extends into the jaw.
- Women may think their stomach pain is the flu, heartburn, or an ulcer.
What are atypical presentations?
With an atypical presentation, the signs and symptoms are different. How? The patient must not complain of pain or pressure in the chest. Pay attention to the following:
- A sharp or “knife-like” pain that occurs when you cough or breathe
- Pain that spreads through the jawbone or into the lower body
- Difficult or labored breathing
If you experience these symptoms. Survive, don’t drive. Call 9-1-1.
For more information on EHAC resources for a community group, contact Dawn Crumpton, Lexington Medical Center Outcomes Coordinator, at (803) 936-7756 via [email protected]