Warning Signs of a Heart Attack:
- Chest Discomfort: Uncomfortable pressure, tightness, or pain in the chest that may spread to the arms, back, neck, jaw, or stomach. It might feel like squeezing or fullness.
- Shortness of Breath: Difficulty breathing or feeling short of breath, often accompanied by chest discomfort.
- Cold Sweat: Sudden onset of cold sweat, even when not engaged in physical activity or in a cool environment.
- Nausea or Dizziness: Feeling lightheaded, nauseous, or experiencing dizziness or fainting spells.
- Fatigue: Sudden unexplained fatigue or weakness, especially in combination with other symptoms.
Warning Signs of a Stroke (FAST):
Remember the acronym FAST to recognize signs of a stroke:
- Face Drooping: One side of the face droops or feels numb. Ask the person to smile, and check if the smile is uneven.
- Arm Weakness: One arm feels weak or numb. Ask the person to raise both arms, and see if one arm drifts downward.
- Speech Difficulty: Speech may be slurred or difficult to understand. Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence, and check for any speech abnormalities.
- Time to Call Emergency Services: If you notice any of these signs, it's crucial to call emergency services immediately, even if the symptoms disappear.
It's important to note that symptoms may vary between individuals, and not all people experiencing a heart attack or stroke will have all these symptoms. Additionally, some individuals, particularly women, might experience atypical symptoms. If you suspect a heart attack or stroke, do not ignore the signs. Seek immediate medical attention by calling emergency services (such as 911 in the United States) to get prompt treatment. Acting quickly can save lives in these situations.
