The symptoms of a heart attack can vary from person to person, but some common signs and symptoms include:
Chest pain or discomfort: This is often described as a feeling of pressure, tightness, squeezing, or fullness in the chest. The pain may come and go or last for an extended period.
Pain or discomfort in other areas: Pain may also be felt in the arms (usually the left arm, but it can be both arms), back, neck, jaw, or stomach.
Shortness of breath: Difficulty breathing, especially when combined with chest discomfort, can be a sign of a heart attack.
Cold sweat: Profuse sweating, particularly if it's sudden and not related to physical exertion or heat, can be a symptom.
Nausea and vomiting: Feeling nauseous or vomiting may occur during a heart attack.
Light-headedness or dizziness: Feeling faint or dizzy can be a warning sign.
It's important to note that not everyone experiencing a heart attack will have all of these symptoms, and some may have atypical or mild symptoms, especially in certain populations like women and older adults.
As for the duration of a heart attack, it typically refers to the time between the onset of symptoms and seeking medical attention. In most cases, heart attacks are acute events and are characterized by a sudden onset of symptoms. If left untreated, a heart attack can lead to significant damage to the heart muscle and may be life-threatening. That's why it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention if you or someone else experiences symptoms that could be indicative of a heart attack.
However, in some cases, the symptoms of a heart attack can come and go or be milder, leading some individuals to delay seeking medical help, especially if they have a condition called "silent heart attack" where they experience minimal or no symptoms. Even in such cases, the underlying heart muscle damage can be significant.
To reiterate, if you suspect you or someone else is experiencing a heart attack, do not delay seeking emergency medical assistance. Call for emergency services immediately. Early intervention can greatly improve the chances of survival and minimize long-term complications.