When CPR Is Necessary: Understanding The Signs And Symptoms?

Do you know the symptoms of a heart attack and when you should provide assistance? Though there are often plenty of examples of what a heart attack looks like on TV, the reality is not always so dramatic. Whether you are working with those at risk or you are just hoping to take CPR training to be ready in case something happens to your loved one, it is critical to know what to look for.

The terms heart attack and cardiac arrest are often used interchangeably but are different conditions.

During a heart attack, there is a blockage in the arteries to the heart preventing blood flow to the heart. The heart muscle will become damaged which can lead to cardiac arrest. Symptoms of someone experiencing a heart attack may include:

• Chest pain
• Pain that radiates to the neck, jaw, shoulder, arms, back, or sometimes the upper belly.
• Shortness of Breath
• Cold sweats
• Nausea or vomiting
• Extreme tiredness that is unusual

A heart attack may lead to cardiac arrest, a condition when the heart stops beating suddenly. The lack of oxygenated blood flow to the brain and other organs can cause a person to lose consciousness and require immediate medical attention. Signs of someone in cardiac arrest include:

• Sudden collapse
• Loss of consciousness
• Lack of normal breathing
• Lack of pulse

Know What to Do When Something Happens

CPR guidelines provide very clear steps to take when something like this occurs. When you have proper CPR training, you are able to react right away, examining the situation and determining the next step. CPR in emergency situations has to be an instinct, something you do because you know how.

You can learn CPR for infants, children, and adults. To do that, invest in the proper training program now.

Learn How to React

At CPR Solutions, we want to ensure you know what to do when someone experiences cardiac arrest. You can learn how to save a life. Contact us now to take CPR classes.