Holidays and heart attacks

Warning signals of a heart attack
Recognizing the signs of a heart attack can be vital in seeking timely medical treatment. The Canadian Heart & Stroke Foundation says to be alert for the following symptoms.

Pain
• sudden discomfort or pain that does not go away with rest
• pain in the chest, neck, jaw, shoulder, arms or back
• pain that feels like burning, squeezing, heaviness, tightness or pressure
• in women, pain may be more vague
• chest pain or discomfort that is brought on with exertion and goes away with rest

Shortness of breath
• difficulty breathing

Nausea
• indigestion
• vomiting

Sweating
• cool, clammy skin

Fear
• anxiety
• denial

If you are experiencing any of these signals, the Heart & Stroke Foundation advises to:
• Call 9-1-1 or your local emergency number immediately.
• Stop all activity and sit or lie down, in whatever position is most comfortable.
• If you take nitroglycerin, take your normal dosage.
• If you are experiencing chest pain, chew and swallow one adult 325 mg ASA tablet (acetylsalicylic acid, commonly referred to as Aspirin®) or two 80 mg tablets. Note: Pain medicines such as acetaminophen (e.g. Tylenol) or ibuprofen (e.g. Advil®) do not work the same way as ASA (i.e. Aspirin®).
• Rest comfortably and wait for emergency medical services to arrive.

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