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Heart Attack and Stroke

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Heart attacks happen when cholesterol has accumulated and forms plaque in a coronary artery.  As the cholesterol accumulates, it blocks off the oxygen to the heart.
 
 
If a blood clot forms and completely cloggs the artery, a heart attack will occur.  Often times, a blood clot will develop somewhere else in the body and travel through an artery to the heart. (If a blood clot forms in the brain, a stroke will result.)
 
 

Sometimes heart attacks occur instantly.  Most of the time heart attack symptoms build, and the attack will come later.  It usually begins with mild pain or discomfort in the chest.  If you suspect you or someone else is having pain or discomfort, don't wait to seek treatment. Phone 911 immediately.

Most heart attacks occur with a mild discomfort in the chest, which usually goes away, then comes back stronger; causing more pain.  It may feel like a fullness or pressure in the chest area.
Other symptoms may include:
Heart Attack Symptoms:Discomfort may come in other parts of the body
Heart Attack Symptoms: Pain may travel down the arm, neck, or back
Heart Attack Symptoms: Arms and hands may become numb, or tingle
Heart Attack Symptoms: Shortness of breath, or painful breathing
Heart Attack Symptoms:Cold skin, cold sweats
Heart Attack Symptoms:Vomiting, dizzyness,
Heart Attack Symptoms: Short term memory loss

The sooner you get to the hospital, the better.   Don't take any chances. 

 

 
 
Email the WebMaster
Email the Web Master

Tooele County Health Department Division of School and Family Health
151 North Main Street   Tooele Utah 84074
(435) 277 - 2310 Fax (435) 277-2304