       
      
                                       SECTION III
                                      HEART ATTACK

Heart attacks are among the leading cause of death in the United
States. A heart attack happens when one or more of the blood
vessels that supply blood to the heart become blocked. When this
occurs, cells in the heart begin to die when they cannot get blood
for vital nourishment. If a large part of the heart is deprived of
blood, the heart stops beating and the victim suffers CARDIAC
ARREST!

When a victim's heart stops beating, they require CARDIOPULMONARY
RESUSCITATION (CPR) which provides vital oxygen through rescue
breathing and which maintains circulation through chest
compressions.

PROPER TRAINING IS REQUIRED TO PERFORM CPR, HOWEVER ANY HEART
ATTACK CAN LEAD TO CARDIAC ARREST AND IT IS THEREFORE VITAL FOR
FIRST AIDERS TO BE ABLE TO RECOGNIZE THE EARLY WARNING SIGNS OF A
HEART ATTACK SO THE VICTIM CAN RECEIVE PROMPT PROFESSIONAL
ATTENTION!

A heart attack victim whose heart is still beating has a much
better chance of survival than a victim whose heart has stopped!
Most heart attack victims who die succumb within 2 hours after
having their heart attack. Many of these victims could be saved if
bystanders recognize the symptoms of a heart attack and get the
victim to a hospital quickly! Indeed, many victims of heart attacks
think they are experiencing HEARTBURN or other minor discomfort
when in fact their life is in jeopardy!

           

The most significant sign of a heart attack is chest pain. The
victim may describe it as pressure, a feeling of tightness in the
chest, aching, crushing, fullness or tightness, constricting or
heavy pain. The pain may be located in the center of the chest
although it is not uncommon for the pain to radiate to one or both
shoulders or arms or to the neck, jaw or back.

In addition to pain, victims may experience sweating, nausea or
shortness of breath. Many victims deny they may be having a heart
attack. Others may have their condition worsened by fear of dying.
With all victims of heart attacks - and with all victims receiving
first aid for any condition - it is important for the rescuer to
constantly reassure the victim and keep them as calm and relaxed as
possible.

The psychological value of reassurance is as important in first aid
as any treatments!

FIRST AID FOR A HEART ATTACK

       1. Recognize the signs & symptoms of a heart attack

       2. Comfort & reassure the victim

       3. Have the victim stop whatever they were doing and sit or
         lie in a comfortable position

       4. Summon emergency medical help quickly

       5. If the victim become unconscious, be prepared to perform 
          CPR [IF YOU ARE TRAINED]


All of us can reduce the risk of heart attack by controlling high
blood pressure, limiting cholesterol in the diet, watching weight,
exercising,giving up smoking and minimizing stress.   



