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This may be caused by a blood clot blocking a coronary artery. This may cause the muscle to be damaged, or die, or cause interference with the electrical activity of the heart, causing it to stop beating. When the heart stops beating, this is known as CARDIAC ARREST. Damage to the heart muscle is a HEART ATTACK.
Warning signs of Heart Attack
- The symptoms of heart attack vary, but the most common is a prolonged oppressive pain or unusual discomfort in the centre of the chest, behind the breastbone.
- The pain may radiate to the shoulder, arm, neck, or jaw. Sometimes the symptoms may subside and then return.
- There may also be sweating, weakness, nausea and shortness of breath.
A heart attack victim may or may not become unconscious.
ALL CASES OF CHEST PAIN SHOULD BE INVESTIGATED.
Treatment
If the above symptoms occur, an ambulance should be called at once.
Telephone 112 (mobile) or your local emergency number and ask for an Ambulance.
If unavailable, the victim should immediately be taken to the nearest hospital.
Every minute is vital in cases of suspected heart attack. A victim should not be allowed to drive himself to hospital.
- If the casualty is conscious reassure, gently support with pillows, and place in a half-sitting position with knees bent.
- DO NOT ALLOW the casualty to move unnecessarily as this will put extra strain on the heart.
- Loosen any tight clothing around the neck, chest and waist.
- Treat for shock.
- Remove to hospital immediately, maintaining the treatment position if possible.
Unconscious Victim
- Call 112 or your local emergency number and say cardiac emergency first.
- If breathing and heartbeat stop, begin the A-B-C of resuscitation immediately.
- Remove to hospital immediately, continuing resuscitation on the way, if necessary.
- If the casualty becomes unconscious, but is breathing normally, place in the recovery position.
- Check pulse rate continuously.
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