Thousands of
people die of heart attacks and cardiac arrests every year. It is only by
recognizing the signs that can enable someone in acting quickly thus leading to
a victim’s survival. The best way to deal with a cardiac emergency is by
undergoing training in the CPR techniques.
The
procedures comprise chest compressions and rescue breaths. Proper application
can revive the life of a victim. Do select an accredited training center such
as the AHA certified CPR Columbus, Ohio for
obtaining training. Certified
instructors conduct the classes through a series of audio and video lectures
and hands-on practice. There are courses for both healthcare and non-healthcare
providers. Do go through the course curriculum prior to signing up for a
program.
Signs of Heart Attack or Myocardial
Infarction:
Signs can
vary and may be different for men and women. If you experience any of the
following signs, do call for the emergency medical services by dialing 911 with
immediate effect.
1. Chest Discomfort- Pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain, burning or heaviness.
2. Sweating
3. Shortness of Breath
4. Upper body discomfort- neck, jaw, shoulders, arms and back.
5. Nausea
6. Light-headedness
If you
experience the signs:
1. Immediately call for the emergency
medical services. Emergency personnel can start treatment enroute to the
hospital.
2. Stop all activity and sit or lie down
at the most comfortable position.
3. Take your normal dosage of
nitroglycerin.
4. Chew and swallow an Aspirin® (ASA),
if you are not allergic or intolerant.
5. Stay calm while waiting for help to
arrive.
6. Keep a list of your medications in
your wallet and by the phone.
Signs of MI in women:
The most
common sign is chest pain or discomfort. However, women can experience a heart
attack without chest pressure. They may experience shortness of breath,
pressure or pain in the lower chest or upper abdomen, dizziness,
lightheadedness or fainting, upper back pressure or extreme fatigue.
Signs of a Cardiac Arrest:
If the heart
stops for any reason, blood is no longer getting to the brain, heart and vital
organs which can result in death within minutes.
1. Sudden collapse
2. Unresponsive to touch and sound
3. Not breathing or is making gasping
sounds
If you
witness signs of a cardiac arrest:
1. Immediately dial 911 for the
emergency medical services.
2. Begin CPR and simultaneously look for
an AED device nearby as the device is available in most public places these
days.
3. Start CPR where you should begin with
the chest compressions. Push hard and fast in the center of the chest.
4. Don’t be afraid of performing the
resuscitation procedures in a wrong way. Remember, doing CPR-even if not
perfect-gives the victim the best chance. You can’t hurt. You can only help.
Sudden Arrhythmia Death Syndromes- It covers a variety of cardiac
disorders which are often genetic and can cause sudden death in young,
apparently healthy people.
Some of the
signs include
1. Fainting or seizure during physical
activity.
2. Fainting or seizure from distress or
being startled.
3. Family history of death that is
sudden, unexplained.
It is only a
healthy lifestyle inclusive of a healthy diet and regular physical activity
that can keep your heart in a good shape thus ensuring a long shelf-life on
your part. Do consult healthcare providers for heart disease risks.
Contribute towards the safety of victims
involved in cardiac emergencies in out-of-hospital cases by getting CPR
trained. Contact CPR Columbus for more information.
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