Would You Recognize Heart Attack Symptoms?
Would you know how to recognize the symptoms of a heart attack?

New study results suggest that many people having a heart attack simply do not realize the significance of their symptoms, especially if they've never had them before, thereby leading to dangerous delays in seeking care.

"This study confirms what emergency doctors have observed for years," said Dr. Stephanie Coulter, a cardiologist at St. Luke's Episcopal Hospital. "People with no previous cardiac history often fail to recognize their symptoms as cardiac in origin and either have no idea of their cause or attribute them to indigestion."

Dr. Coulter explained that there are important reasons for people who may be having a heart attack to get prompt medical attention. Thrombolytic (clot busting) therapy or primary angioplasty can limit the damage caused by a heart attack, but only if the patient gets treatment quickly.

"Administration of a thrombolytic drug within one hour of the onset of symptoms can reduce mortality significantly," Dr. Coulter said.

What's important to keep in mind, Dr. Coulter said, is that "the symptoms of heart attack are not always dramatic, like crushing chest pain followed by collapse." Chest pain of any kind should not be ignored, she stressed, even if it is "tolerable."

As to what can be done to reduce patient delays, Dr. Coulter suggested that "more education is needed on the variability of coronary symptoms and that acting on them quickly may save lives."

Anyone who has any of these symptoms for five minutes or longer should see a doctor immediately. Call emergency medical services (9-1-1) or have someone drive you to the nearest hospital emergency room. Do not drive yourself; it could be dangerous to you and to others.

- Courtesy of St. Luke's Episcopal Hospital

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©2006 Texas Medical Center

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