How To Spot A Heart Attack

How to Spot a Heart Attack: Key Signs Everyone Should Know

A heart attack is a medical emergency that requires immediate action. In the UK, someone is admitted to hospital due to a heart attack approximately every five minutes. Recognising the signs early and calling 999 can be the difference between life and death.

Common Symptoms of a Heart Attack

A heart attack occurs when the supply of blood to the heart is suddenly blocked. The symptoms can vary between individuals, but the most common signs include:

• Chest Pain or Discomfort – This is often described as a squeezing, pressure, or tightness in the centre of the chest. It may come and go or last for several minutes.

• Pain Spreading to Other Areas – The pain may radiate to the arms (often the left arm), jaw, neck, back, or stomach.

• Shortness of Breath – This may occur with or without chest pain and can feel like an overwhelming inability to breathe properly.

• Feeling Lightheaded or Dizzy – A heart attack can cause a sudden feeling of weakness or fainting.

• Sweating and Nausea – Some people experience cold sweats, sickness, or an upset stomach.

Less Common Symptoms

Not all heart attacks present with dramatic chest pain. Some individuals, particularly women, the elderly, and people with diabetes, may experience:

• A general feeling of unease or anxiety

• Unexplained fatigue or exhaustion

• Indigestion-like pain

What to Do If You Suspect a Heart Attack

If you or someone near you experiences symptoms of a heart attack:

1. Call 999 Immediately – Do not wait to see if the symptoms go away. Emergency medical assistance is crucial.

2. Encourage the Person to Sit in the W Position and Stay Calm – Sitting on the floor with knees bent and supported can help ease strain on the heart and improve circulation.

3. Chew an Aspirin (If Advised) – If the person is not allergic and is over 16, a 300mg aspirin can help thin the blood and improve circulation.

4. Be Prepared to Perform CPR – If the person becomes unresponsive and is not breathing normally, begin CPR and use a defibrillator if one is available.

Prevention and Heart Health

While heart attacks can happen unexpectedly, lifestyle choices play a huge role in prevention. Managing blood pressure, maintaining a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and avoiding smoking can reduce the risk significantly.

Final Thoughts

Recognising a heart attack early and acting quickly could save a life. By spreading awareness and knowing what to do, we can all play a role in improving heart health in the UK. If you want to learn more about life-saving first aid skills, consider taking one of our accredited first aid courses at Trainer Hub.

For more expert guidance, get in touch for training today!