Definition
Heart attack or acute myocardial
infarction occurs when a blood clot suddenly and completely blocks a diseased
coronary artery. There is no blood supply resulting in the death of the heart
muscle cells supplied by that artery.
Signs and Symptoms
The severity of a heart attack may
include some, or all of the following signs and symptoms depend on the degree
of damage to the heart muscle.
Severe chest pain or chest
discomfort.
Ask these questions:
“What is the pain like?”
People describe the pain of a
heart attack in many ways such as “pressure”, “fullness”, “squeezing”, and “heaviness” or “chest
tightness”.
“Where is the pain located?”
Location of pain is usually deep
in the center of the chest, after a few moments the pain may spread to the
shoulder, the neck or the lower jaw or down the arm.
“How long does the pain last?”
The discomfort of a heart attack
usually lasts more than a few minutes and not relieved by rest.
·
Shortness of breath or suffocation
·
Giddiness and sweating
·
Pale face, skin cold and clammy
·
Nausea or vomiting
·
Pulse rapid, weak and irregular
·
Feeling apprehensive and fearful
·
Denial response – Do not admit that the symptoms
may indicate a heart attack.
·
Collapse often without any warning
Early recognition of the signs and
symptoms of a heart attack is important for successful treatment. The victim
requires immediate attention.
Complete rest
Reassure victim.
·
Recline the seat (half-sitting position) and
loosen tight clothing to ease breathing and allow comfort.
·
Administer high flow oxygen
·
Find out if victim has known history of heart
disease and uses Nitroglycerin.
·
Monitor and record breathing and pulse every 10
– 15 minutes
Treat for victim shock and be
prepared to resuscitate.
