When most people think of a heart attack, they picture crushing chest pain and a person clutching their arm. However, in women, the signs can be much different and are often subtle, which can lead to delayed help and tragic outcomes. Knowing these unique symptoms and the right first aid steps can save a life.
Recognizing the Signs
While chest pain can still be a symptom, women are more likely to experience other, less obvious signs. It is crucial to be aware of these.
- Unusual Fatigue: Feeling extremely tired for days or even weeks without a clear reason.
- Sleep Disturbances: Difficulty sleeping, even when you’re exhausted.
- Shortness of Breath: Feeling winded while resting or doing very little physical activity.
- Nausea or Vomiting: Experiencing nausea, dizziness, or a feeling of lightheadedness.
- Pain in the Jaw, Neck, or Back: Pain that feels like pressure or a dull ache and can spread down to the arm.
- Indigestion or Heartburn: A feeling of fullness or discomfort in the stomach, often mistaken for other common issues.
These symptoms can appear suddenly or develop gradually over hours or days.
Immediate First Aid Steps
If you or someone you are with is experiencing any of these symptoms, do not hesitate. Every minute counts.
1. Call for an Ambulance Immediately
Do not wait to see if the symptoms get better. Call 108 or your local emergency services right away. The sooner you get professional help, the better the outcome will be. Make sure to tell the dispatcher all the symptoms you are observing.
2. Get to a Safe, Comfortable Position
Help the person sit or lie down in a position that is comfortable for them, preferably with their back supported. Loosen any tight clothing. Keep them calm and reassure them that help is on the way.
3. Give Aspirin (If Safe)
If the person is conscious, not allergic to aspirin, and has not been advised against it, have them chew one regular-strength aspirin (325 mg) or two to four low-dose aspirins (81 mg each). Chewing the aspirin helps it work faster to thin the blood and can help prevent further clotting.
4. Stay Calm and Wait for Help
Do not try to move the person or give them any food or drink. Stay with them and continue to monitor their condition until the paramedics arrive.
In Bangalore, our mission at Veer is to bridge the gap between an emergency and professional medical care. During a time of crisis, our trained dispatchers can provide vital guidance, helping you take the right first aid steps until expert medical help arrives.