Health Watch is a Public Service of the Office of News and Publications and is intended to provide general information only and should not replace the advice of a medical professional. You should contact your physician if you have questions about any of these topics.
Heart disease is the No. 1 killer of adult Americans. This week on Healthwatch, we'll look at ways to prevent some deaths from heart problems. One way to improve your chances of surviving a heart attack is to know the symptoms.
Dr. James Atkins, a cardiologist at UT Southwestern Medical Center, says knowing that you're having a heart attack and getting medical help in time are keys to surviving a heart attack. Common symptoms include pain or tightness in the chest that lasts a few minutes or radiating pain that travels down your arm or into your jaw. If you notice these symptoms, you should call 911 immediately. Don't try to drive yourself to the hospital or have someone else drive you. Those who call 911 and are transported to the hospital by ambulance are more likely to survive a heart attack.
Next: New views on performing CPR.
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May 2005
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