Chest Pain

It is important to take chest pain seriously. Monitor the condition closely, and if you are concerned, see a physician.

It's sometimes difficult to decide whether chest pain is a medical emergency, but the following are highlights of a medical crisis.

Get emergency assistance if the chest pain is accompanied by:

• Pain that spreads to the arm, jaw, shoulders or neck,
• Breathing difficulties,
• A feeling of pressure on the left side,
• Nausea or vomiting,
• Sweating or anxiety, or
• An uneven heartbeat.

These symptoms could indicate the victim is having a heart attack. Heart attacks can cause several minutes of prolonged pain in the chest or can be "siletn" with no symptoms.

If you believe someone is experiencing a heart attack, help them sit comfortably and loosen any tight clothing. Get help immediately!

Characteristics of a Heart Attack

Intense, prolonged pain that might feel like pressure or heaviness. Pain radiating from the left shoulder down the arm or pain in both arms, back, or even the jaw and neck. It may feel like severe indigestion. Nausea, shortness of breath and intense sweating. Weakness, restlessness and anxiousness. Loss of consciousness.