February is Heart Month and St. John Ambulance says it’s important for people to recognize the signs and symptoms of a heart attack. Knowing these signs and symptoms can spell the difference between life and death:
• Pain that can be described as heaviness, tightness, squeezing, pressure, crushing, indigestion, aching jaw, sore arms
• Pale skin
• Sweating
• Nausea and/or vomiting
• Shortness of breath
• Fatigue
• Shock
If you suspect a person is having a heart attack, begin first aid and initiate the following steps:
• Get medical help immediately. If you must leave the casualty alone, make sure to place them at rest before you go.
• Place the casualty at rest in a comfortable position; in most cases, the semi-sitting position is best. This will help take stress off the heart.
• Make the casualty comfortable. Loosen tight clothing around the neck, chest and waist.
• Do your best to reassure them and reduce their fear — anxiety can cause more stress on the heart.
• If the casualty has prescribed medication and has asked for your assistance, assist them to take their medication. If they don’t have medication, or the medication does not work after the dose, ask if they are able to take an Acetylsalicylic Acid (ASA) pill, such as Aspirin, and have them chew one regular strength adult ASA tablet.
• If they should lose consciousness and stop breathing, start CPR.
On average, heart attack casualties takes four and a half hours to get to a hospital from the onset of symptoms. The main reason for this delay is that it takes people a long time to accept something serious is wrong. If you suspect a heart attack, seek medical attention immediately. The sooner you get help, the better the chances of survival.
For more information, visit St. John Ambulance’s website at www.sja.ca
Add this page to your favorite Social Bookmarking websites
| Next > |
|---|
Comments