Heart Smart: Attack Signals and Symptoms American Medical Association publishes family medical guide If you thought you or a loved one were having a heart attack, what would you do? It's a sobering question that too many of us don't know how to answer. But planning ahead can literally save your life-or the life of a loved one. "Patients who recognize the symptoms of a heart attack and educate themselves about what actions to take can significantly increase their chances of survival," said J. Edward Hill, M.D., president-elect of the American Medical Association and a family physician from Tupelo, MS. "Prompt treatment is essential-the sooner treatment begins, the better the odds of surviving a heart attack." To learn how to recognize the symptoms of a heart attack and what steps to take in response to a suspected heart attack, read all about it in the American Medical Association Family Medical Guide (Wiley; ISBN: 0-471-26911-5; Cloth/$45.00). Below are some facts and advice excerpted from this indispensable reference book. What Is a Heart Attack? 01. Blood reaches the heart through the coronary arteries. 02. Fatty deposits called plaque narrow artery's inner walls. 03. This process, atherosclerosis, develops gradually over many years. 04. When plaque ruptures, a blood clot can form, reducing blood flow to heart. 05. Clot suddenly cuts off most or all of the blood supply to the heart. 06. Individual experiences a heart attack. 07. Cells in heart muscle don't receive oxygen-carrying blood, begin to die. 08. Time becomes crucial. Immediate response can be life-saving. 09. Each minute without blood flow to heart further damages heart muscle. Know the Symptoms (some people may have no symptoms) Sudden chest pain, tightness, pressure Indigestion or on-going pain in upper abdomen Shortness of breath Dizziness or fainting Weakness or fatigue Heavy sweating Chills Pain extends to shoulders, arms, back, neck, or jaw Nausea and vomiting Backache Arm or jaw numbness Restlessness or anxiety; sleeplessness Paleness Blueness of the lips, hands, feet A Special Word of Warning for Women Women's symptoms can vary considerably from the classic signs of a heart attack. Women are more likely than men to experience dizziness, shortness of breath, nausea, sweating, chills, weakness, faintness, restlessness and anxiety, and blueness of the lips, hands, or feet, along with chest pain. American Medical Association Family Medical Guide, 4th Edition (Wiley; ISBN: 0-471-26911-5; Cloth/$45.00) is available in bookstores, online, or direct from the publisher by calling 800-225-5945. In Canada, call 800-567-4797. See related articles in AgeVenture archives. Read more health and fitness news in AgeVenture's Headline News Read about active, healthy living in AgeVenture's Head Lifestyle Back to Top