Cardiovascular Emergencies

Heart Attack Blood supply to part of the heart muscle is reduced or stopped. Recognizing a heart attack Chest pressure, squeezing, or pain that lasts longer than a few minutes or goes away and comes back Pain spreading to shoulders, neck, jaw, or arms Dizziness, sweating, nausea Shortness of breath

Care for a Heart Attack Call 9-1-1. Help victim into comfortable position. Assist with prescribed medications. Nitroglycerin Provide aspirin. Regular or chewable

Angina Heart muscle does not get enough blood. Brought on by physical activity. Recognizing angina Signs are similar to heart attack. Usually does not last longer than 10 minutes. Almost always relieved by nitroglycerin.

Care for Angina Have the victim rest. If the victim has nitroglycerin, help the victim use it. If pain lasts longer than 10 minutes, suspect a heart attack and call 9-1-1.

Risk Factors of Cardiovascular Disease Cannot be changed Heredity Gender Age Can be changed Smoking High blood pressure High cholesterol Diabetes Obesity Inactivity Stress

Stroke (Brain Attack) (1 of 2) Blood flow to brain disrupted Blocked or ruptured blood vessel

Stroke (Brain Attack) (2 of 2) Recognizing stroke Weakness, numbness, partial paralysis Blurred or decreased vision Problems speaking Dizziness or loss of balance Sudden, severe headache

Care for Stroke Seek medical care. If responsive, lay patient on back with head and shoulders slightly elevated. If vomiting, place in recovery position.