Heart Attack
Warning Signs

In movies and on TV, heart attacks are sudden and intense, and everyone knows what is going on. In reality, most heart attacks start slowly. The sufferer may experience mild pain or discomfort, but not really know what is going on. When this happens, it is easy to wait too long before getting help.

Signs to watch for that can mean a heart attack is happening are:

Chest discomfort. Most heart attacks involve discomfort in the center of the chest that lasts more than a few minutes. This discomfort may also go away and come back. It can feel like uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness, or pain.
 

Upper Body Discomfort. These symptoms can include pain or discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw, or stomach.
 

Shortness of breath. This feeling often comes along with chest discomfort. But it can occur before the chest discomfort.
 

Other signs: These may include breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea, or lightheadedness.
Call 911!

If you or someone you're with has chest discomfort, especially with one or more of the warning signs, call 911 right away. Don't wait more than five minutes before calling for help. Emergency medical services staff can begin treatment when they arrive. The staff is also trained to revive someone whose heart has stopped. Patients with chest pain who arrive by ambulance usually receive faster treatment at the hospital.
 
Get a Ride
If you can't access the emergency medical services (EMS) by calling 911, have someone drive you to the hospital right away. If you're the one having symptoms, don't drive yourself, unless you have absolutely no other option.
 
Start CPR
Start CPR, only if you are certified and only if the victim stops breathing. CPR stands for "Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation." It is a procedure you can learn to help people suffering a heart attack, among other things. CPR involves a combination of mouth-to-mouth rescue breathing (or other artificial ventilation techniques) and chest compressions. It keeps some oxygenated blood flowing to the brain and other vital organs until appropriate medical treatment can restore normal heart action. The local American Heart Association or American Red Cross offers free classes where you can train and certify in this life-saving technique. Visit The American Heart Association or the American Red Cross site to find a class in your area.
 
Defibrillators
Automatic External Defibrillators. If you're in a public place, seek out an AED. More and more malls, restaurants, hotels, schools and offices have these life saving devices. If one is available, follow the simple directions on the machine.