Heart Attack First Aid

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Heart Attack First Aid: Symptoms & Signs

In adults:

• chest pain behind the sternum (breastbone)
  • pain may radiate to the:
    • neck, teeth, or jaw
    • arms, shoulder, or back
    • abdomen
• pain is similar to angina, but not relieved by rest or nitroglycerin
• pain that may be described as:
  • squeezing, aching, tightness, or pressure
  • a tight band on the chest
  • "an elephant sitting on my chest"
  • "bad indigestion" or heartburn
  • pain may be intense or subtle; however, the victim may not have any pain at all
• shortness of breath that occurs suddenly
  • may or may not be accompanied by pain
• sweating, may be profuse
• nausea or vomiting
• light-headedness, dizziness, or fainting
• feeling of "impending doom"

Note: Heart attacks may be associated with a wide range of symptoms, from subtle to intense. Women and elderly persons are more likely to experience subtle or atypical symptoms. The victim often denies that he or she may be having a heart attack.

In babies and children:

• victim is limp and unresponsive
• skin may be bluish in color