Heart attack risk - why you should NEVER ignore chest pain

Most chest pain isn’t a sign of anything serious, according to the NHS.

The most common causes of chest pain are heartburn, indigestion or a chest sprain.

But, you should call 999 immediately if the pain spreads to your arms, back, neck or jaw, the NHS urged.

You should also get medical help if you suffer from shortness of breath, sweating, or vomiting.

“Call 999 if you have sudden chest pain that spreads to your arms, back, neck or jaw, or makes your chest feel tight or heavy,” the NHS said.

“You could be having a heart attack. Call 999 immediately as you need immediate treatment in hospital.”

A heart attack is a serious medical emergency, where the supply of blood to the heart is suddenly blocked, usually by a blood clot.

The heart could become seriously damaged if it doesn’t receive enough blood. It could also be life-threatening.

Chest pain caused by a heart attack can feel like it’s being pressed or squeezed by a heavy object.

Other signs of a heart attack include shortness of breath, an overwhelming feeling of anxiety, and feeling lightheaded.

If your chest pain comes and goes, or if the pain is worrying you, you should see a GP or go to a local walk-in centre, the NHS said.

Getting medical advice will make sure that it’s nothing serious.

Chest pain could be mistaken for indigestion. If the pain starts after eating, and brings up bitter tasting fluids, it’s more likely to be caused by heartburn or indigestion.

A chest sprain could cause pain after an injury or exercising. The pain usually feel better after resting the muscle.

If the pain gets worse when you breath in and out, or you’re coughing up yellow/green music, it could be a sign of a chest infection or pneumonia.

from http://www.protein-barscheap.info