Heart Attack and Stroke Symptoms

Both heart attacks and strokes are serious medical emergencies that require immediate attention. It’s important to be aware of the symptoms so you can seek help promptly. Here are the common symptoms of each:

Heart Attack Symptoms:

1. Chest Pain or Discomfort: This is often described as a feeling of pressure, squeezing, fullness, or pain in the chest that can last for a few minutes or come and go.
2. Pain or Discomfort in Other Areas: Pain or discomfort may also be felt in the arms (especially the left arm), back, neck, jaw, or stomach.
3. Shortness of Breath: You might experience difficulty breathing, which can occur before or during chest discomfort.
4. Cold Sweat: You may suddenly break into a cold sweat without any apparent cause.
5. Nausea or Vomiting: Some people might feel nauseous or vomit during a heart attack.
6. Lightheadedness or Dizziness: You might feel dizzy or lightheaded, possibly even fainting.

Stroke Symptoms (Remember the FAST acronym):

1. Face Drooping: One side of the face may droop or feel numb. Ask the person to smile to check for this symptom.
2. Arm Weakness: One arm may become weak or numb. Ask the person to raise both arms to see if one arm drifts downward.
3. Speech Difficulty: Speech may become slurred, garbled, or difficult to understand. Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence to check for this symptom.
4. Time to Call Emergency Services: If you observe any of the above symptoms, especially if they occur suddenly, call emergency services immediately.

It’s important to note that not everyone will experience all of these symptoms, and some symptoms may be more subtle, especially in women. If you or someone around you is experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to seek medical help immediately by calling emergency services (e.g., 911 in the United States) or your local emergency number.

Prevention is key, and adopting a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, avoiding smoking, and managing stress, can significantly reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes. If you have specific concerns about your health or risk factors, it’s best to consult with a healthcare professional.