A heart attack may come as a surprise, or the victim may have known he had heart disease or high blood pressure. Symptoms vary, but often include extreme pain and temporary unconsciousness. With good care, many victims of heart attack recover completely. In a few cases death occurs soon after the attack strikes. There are 3 principal causes of heart attack.
Angina Pectoris = The attack in this case is brought on by a reduction in blood supply to the muscular wall of the heart, possibly resulting from a narrowing or a spasm of the coronary arteries that supply the heart. Blood still reaches the heart muscle but in reduced quantity.
The attack is precipitated by exertion, physical or emotional, or exposure to cold. It often follows the eating of hearty evening meal, particularly if the meal included much fat. The principal symptom is extreme pain in the chest which may extend into the neck and even down the left arm to the wrist. The victim's face appears pale and gray. Usually he does not lose consciousness but clutches his chest, becomes very anxious, and refuses to move. Sometimes the is difficulty in breathing. In most cases the pain gradually disappears after a few minutes of rest or after medication.
WHAT TO DO
Lay the victim on the floor or on a bed. Elevate his head and shoulders on a pillow or folded blanket.
Keep him absolutely quiet and protect him from the gaze of onlookers or from other circumstances that might make him apprehensive.
Do not move the victim until the pain has eased. Meanwhile cover him as neccessary to keep him warm.
If the person had has previous similar attacks, he may be carryinh nitroglycerin tablets. If so, one of these should be placed under his tongue ( not swallowed). This will usually terminate the attack promptly. Thos medication is best administered with the patient lying down, as it may cause fainting.
Arrange for him to see his doctor as soon as possible...