A heart attack can be a life-threatening medical emergency, so it's important to look for any warning signs. While there are some classic symptoms of a heart attack that everyone is familiar with, mostly occurring in men, more uncommon indicators arise in women. Both prompt medical intervention. Keep reading to learn more about these average and less-talked-about symptom markers so you can better provide senior care for your loved one.
What Is a Heart Attack?
The heart muscle requires proper blood flow. When this flow becomes blocked or inhibited, a heart attack can occur. This may result in extreme chest discomfort, plus commonly accompanied signs like shortness of breath, weakness, lightheadedness, and cold sweats.
Common Signs of a Heart Attack in Men
Men and women often exhibit different symptoms when it comes to a heart attack. If you have a senior male in your life, be on the lookout for:
- Mentions of chest pain
- Mentions of any discomfort within the upper body
- Shortness of breath
- Cold sweats
Common Signs of a Heart Attack in Women
Women experiencing a heart attack may exhibit some of the same symptoms as men, though there are several distinct indications that a female may be having heart troubles. Senior women should be monitored for:
- Unusual fatigue
- Nausea or vomiting
- Lightheadedness
- Jaw, neck, or back pain (unrelated to exercise)
What Are Some Uncommon Signs of a Heart Attack?
The symptoms women experiences are uncommon for men, but not impossible. Anyone can experience:
- Shortness of breath, even at rest
- Sweating for no apparent reason
- Lightheadedness or dizziness
Any time the senior you care for indicates they are not feeling well, or they show any of these signs, it is best to seek medical attention. Some signs occur for hours before a heart attack happens, or they could come on suddenly, requiring you to act fast.
When to Seek Medical Attention for Your Loved One
If you suspect a heart attack is happening, contact 911 immediately. If your loved one displays any combination of the symptoms above, do not delay in seeking professional medical attention, or the consequences could be dire. Any sort of heart complications are serious and require monitoring by a doctor.
When you dial 911, the operator will instruct you what to do in the meantime. You may need to begin CPR. You must provide comfort and reassurance to the patient and help them through this scary situation.
Consult With Senior Helpers Frederick
If you need help recognizing or caring for an elderly family member who is suffering or has suffered from a heart attack, contact Senior Helpers Frederick for in-home senior care. Our caregivers are trained to both recognize and treat the signs of potential health emergencies, including those associated with cardiovascular disease. Contact us today to get expert advice and support when unexpected medical situations arise during senior living. We serve the communities of Frederick, Hagerstown, Thurmont, and Middletown.