Heart Attack
Learn Heart Attack Symptoms with Texas' Trusted Clinic
We’ve all heard heart-healthy advice and tips for preventing heart attacks. For most of us, heart attacks seem like a far-off problem. However, they’re a very real danger. The American Heart Association estimates every 40 seconds an American has a heart attack. Because this is such a prevalent condition, you want to be sure you have an emergency room you can trust if you’re confronted with the worst. For residents throughout Texas, Exceptional Emergency Center is the go-to for immediate healthcare. Our well-trained staff handles emergency situations on a daily basis with a calm and collected mindset. If you’re looking for the best emergency care in Texas, be sure to keep us on your radar.
What Is a Heart Attack?
We’ve all heard of heart attacks, but do you know what exactly their entail? In general, heart attacks occur when something blocks the flow of blood to the heart. Fat and cholesterol are the most common culprits, which form a plaque substance that cuts off blood flow throughout the artery.
Stay Alert for These Heart Attack Symptoms
There are numerous signs of a heart attack, and every patient will experience them differently. It’s difficult to say exactly which heart attack symptoms you might face, so it’s crucial to be aware of the most common warning signs. You should get in touch with your healthcare provider right away if you notice any of the following symptoms:
- Pressure or pain in the middle of your chest that goes away and returns
- Chest pain on the left side
- Tightness in the chest
- Pain that spreads throughout your upper body
- Cold sweat
- Fatigue
- Shortness of breath
- Nausea or lightheadedness
- Heartburn or abdominal pain
What to Do During a Heart Attack
If you notice any of the heart attack warning signs, a quick reaction is imperative. At the first sign of trouble, call 911 or your local emergency number. If possible, you can have someone drive you to the nearest Exceptional Emergency Center. However, sometimes you need to wait for emergency medical personnel to arrive. In the meantime, you can take nitroglycerin or aspirin if recommended by your doctor. These medications are known to reduce heart damage and resist blood clots. Be aware that aspirin does not mix well with certain other medications, so it’s best to talk to your doctor beforehand too see if aspirin is a viable option for you.
Do You Have Any of These Risk Factors?
So, how do you avoid having a heart attack in the first place? Prevention is often one of your best defenses, so be sure to read up on the risk factors of a heart attack. Certain people are more predisposed to heart problems, and it’s vital to understand your risk level. Common risk factors include:
- Tobacco or drug use
- High blood pressure or high cholesterol
- Obesity
- Diabetes
- Metabolic syndrome
- Preeclampsia
- Autoimmune conditions
- History of heart attacks in your family
- High level of stress
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Age (heart attacks are most common in men older than 45 and women older than 55)
Our Tips for Preventing Heart Attacks
Now that you know the risk factors, you’re better equipped to work toward heart attack prevention. If you’re at risk for a heart attack, your doctor may prescribe specific medications that reduce your risk and improve your heart’s function. Only take medicines you have been prescribed by a healthcare professional and be sure to always use as directed. The team at Exceptional Emergency Center also advises certain lifestyle choices to minimize your risk of heart attack. Keep up with a healthy diet and exercise regimen. It’s also in your best interest to develop stress-relief strategies. When you manage your health, diet, and refrain from smoking, you can greatly reduce your risk of a heart attack in the future.
Call Exceptional Emergency Center Immediately for Heart Attack Treatment
Whether you’re concerned about a future heart attack or you’re feeling pain in the center of your chest right this second, Exceptional Emergency Center is here for you. If you ever notice signs of a heart attack, reach out to our team right away. We take pride in offering some of the best care in the state of Texas, serving the Fort Worth, Livingston, Brownsville, Sachse, Harlingen, Port Arthur, Beaumont, Amarillo, Orange, and Lubbock areas. No matter how insignificant your symptoms may seem, they could signal a more severe, underlying heart problem. Get in touch with our compassionate team or visit us today.