Chest Pain Awareness
Heart disease causes approximately 1 of 4 deaths in the United States. The best way that you can prevent long term illness or even death from heart failure is to learn the signs for heart attack, and remember: even if you’re not sure it’s a heart attack, have it checked out. Minutes matter and swift action can save lives - maybe your own. Call 911 if you experience heart attack warning signs. Calling 911 is almost always the fastest way to get lifesaving treatment.
For many reasons, it’s best to call 911 so that an experienced EMS team can begin treatment and arrange rapid transport to the emergency room.
- About 50% of sudden cardiac deaths occur outside a hospital. This suggests that many people don’t act on early warning signs.
- Survey results show that only 27% of the respondents were aware of all major symptoms and knew to call 911.
EMS staff are also trained to revive someone whose heart has stopped and local EMS teams are trained to coordinate directly with STEMI alert personnel on the ground at LCRH to ensure swift care and a faster door-to-balloon time, when necessary. 
Know the Symptoms, and Seek Care Immediately
Don’t wait to get help if you experience any of these heart attack warning signs. Some heart attacks are sudden and intense. But most start slowly, with mild pain or discomfort. Pay attention to your body and call 911 if you experience:
- Chest discomfort. Most heart attacks involve discomfort in the center of the chest that lasts more than a few minutes – or it may go away and then return. It can feel like uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain.
- Discomfort in other areas of the upper body. Symptoms can include pain or discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw or stomach.
- Shortness of breath. This can occur with or without chest discomfort.
- Other signs. Other possible signs include breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea or lightheadedness.
Like other diseases, heart attacks have early signs and symptoms. These "beginnings" may occur in 50% of patients. If recognized, people can be treated before heart damage occurs. Learn more about early heart attack care here.
Additional Resources
For more information on Hands-Only CPR and community classes, contact the Somerset-Pulaski County EMS at 606-379-6388.