Knowing the warning signs of a heart attack could save your life!
If you think you might be having a heart attack, call 911. Don’t delay! Minutes matter! An ambulance is almost always the fastest and safest way to get to the hospital. Emergency medical services (EMS) staff can begin tests and treatment when they arrive.
Mercy will be here for you in this or any other life-and-death situation. Our cardiac staff will immediately determine if you're having a heart attack and take all the necessary steps to limit any further damage. Our heart care team will develop a specific treatment plan for you with lifestyle changes that can keep your heart healthy.
A heart attack occurs when the flow of blood to the heart is blocked, most often by a build-up of fat, cholesterol and other substances in the coronary arteries. The interrupted blood flow can damage or destroy part of the heart muscle. Restoring that blood flow quickly is key to preventing permanent damage...and surviving.
Some heart attacks are sudden and intense, and it will be obvious what's happening. But most heart attacks start slowly, with mild pain or discomfort. Often people affected aren't sure what's wrong and wait too long before getting help.
For men and women, the most common symptom is chest pain or pressure. Women often have other or additional symptoms like shortness of breath, nausea and back or jaw pain.
If you go to the hospital in an ambulance, treatment will be started right away to restore blood flow and limit damage to the heart. You may be given:
At the hospital, you may receive:
The biggest risk factor for a heart attack is coronary artery disease. By living a heart-healthy lifestyle, you can help slow or prevent coronary artery disease, lowering your risk of a heart attack.
Screenings are important to your heart health and could lead to early detection and treatment of heart disease.
Understand the risks and benefits.
His status as a former professional athlete and amateur baseball hall of fame member could not protect Pat Bone from a “widowmaker” heart attack.
His faith and his infamous competitive nature pulled him through. Now he is on a crusade to spread the message of heart health.