When it comes to heart attacks and strokes, every second counts. These are life-threatening emergencies that require immediate action. Recognizing the signs and knowing what to do can save your life or the life of someone else.
Recognizing a Heart Attack
A heart attack, or myocardial infarction, occurs when blood flow to the heart muscle is blocked, often by a clot or plaque buildup in the coronary arteries. Without oxygen-rich blood, the heart muscle begins to die.
Common Symptoms
Chest discomfort: Pressure, squeezing, fullness, burning, or pain
Upper body discomfort: Pain in the neck, jaw, shoulders, arms, or back
Shortness of breath
Sweating
Nausea or vomiting
Light-headedness or dizziness
Fatigue
Heartburn or indigestion
Women may experience more subtle symptoms such as:
Pain in the lower chest or upper abdomen
Extreme fatigue
Dizziness or fainting
Upper back pressure
What to Do If You Suspect a Heart Attack
Call 911 Immediately
Stop All Activity
Sit or lie down in a comfortable position and stay calm.
Take Nitroglycerin (if prescribed)
Use your usual dosage while waiting for help.
Chew and Swallow Aspirin
If you're not allergic, chew one 325 mg tablet or two 81 mg tablets. Aspirin helps prevent the clot from growing.
Do Not Drive Yourself
Have someone else drive you or wait for emergency services. Driving yourself can be dangerous if symptoms worsen.
Start CPR if Necessary
If someone collapses and is unresponsive, begin CPR.
Recognizing a Stroke
A stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is interrupted, either by a clot (ischemic stroke) or bleeding (hemorrhagic stroke). Brain cells begin to die within minutes, making rapid response critical.
The FAST Method
The FAST acronym helps identify stroke symptoms:
F – Face: Is one side of the face drooping?
A – Arms: Can both arms be raised, or is one weak?
S – Speech: Is speech slurred or strange?
T – Time: Time to call 911 immediately
Other Stroke Symptoms
Sudden numbness or weakness, especially on one side of the body
Confusion or trouble understanding speech
Trouble seeing in one or both eyes
Severe headache with no known cause
Dizziness, loss of balance, or coordination
What to Do If You Suspect a Stroke
Call 911 Immediately
Do not drive yourself. Emergency medical services can begin treatment and take you to a specialized stroke center.
Note the Time Symptoms Began
This is crucial for determining eligibility for clot-busting medications, which must be administered within a specific time window.
Stay With the Person
If someone else is having a stroke, stay with them and keep them calm until help arrives.
Do Not Give Food, Drink, or Medication
Swallowing may be impaired, increasing the risk of choking.
Do Not Delay
Even if symptoms seem to improve, call 911. A transient ischemic attack (TIA), or "ministroke," can be a warning sign of a more serious stroke to come.
Why Immediate Action Matters
For both heart attacks and strokes, time may worsen the impact on the heart muscle or brain. The longer treatment is delayed, the greater the damage.
Prevention Tips
While emergencies can happen unexpectedly, lifestyle changes can reduce your risk:
Quit smoking
Exercise regularly
Eat a heart-healthy diet
Manage blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes
Limit alcohol
Reduce stress
Get regular checkups
Visit your pharmacist for a medication review to ensure your medications are working for you.
Learning CPR and how to use an AED can also prepare you to help others in an emergency.
Final Thoughts
Heart attacks and strokes are among the leading causes of death and disability, but you have the power to act. Recognizing the signs and responding quickly can mean the difference between life and death, recovery and long-term disability.
If you or someone near you shows symptoms, don’t hesitate—call 911. Your quick action could save a life
