Heart & Stroke Emergencies It is important to know the signs and symptoms of a heart attack and stroke. The following information on angina, strokes and myocardial infarction can save your life or that of a loved one. In the past few years, clot-busting drugs, angioplasty and other techniques have revolutionized the way paramedics and emergency room personnel treat heart and stroke emergencies. A few years ago, stroke victims were sent off for physical rehabilitation, but today, if the onset of a stroke can be detected rapidly, most victims can benefit from emergency drug therapy that can often reverse the debilitating effects of a stroke. The same drug therapy and treatment also applies to victims of certain types of heart attacks.   Angina Angina, or angina pectoris is a painful or uncomfortable feeling in the chest that is the result of insufficient blood supply to the heart muscle.   What are the signs and symptoms of angina? Ø  Mild to severe discomfort in the chest. Ø  Angina may feel like a crushing pressure, sharp pain, tightness, squeezing, or burning sensation Ø  Similar to a heart attack the pain may radiate to the shoulders, arm, neck, or jaw Ø  Nausea and/or vomiting Ø  Rapid or irregular heart rate Ø  Pale, sweaty skin Ø  Dizziness Ø  May be mistaken for heartburn or indigestion   What to do if angina occurs? Ø  Immediately call 9-1-1 and ask for an ambulance Ø  Stop any activity you are doing Ø  Sit or lie down   What will the ambulance do when they arrive? Ø  Administer oxygen, this will help your heart receive more oxygen Ø  They will take your vital signs - your blood pressure, heart rate and breathing rate Ø  An electrocardiogram (ECG) may be performed. This takes a picture of the heart which helps the paramedics better understand what is happening. The ambulance crew will place electrodes (stickers) on your chest and body Ø  An intravenous line may be started Ø  The paramedics may give you medication to reduce your angina   How to prevent angina? ü  Don't smoke. Cigarette smoking can lead to heart disease and angina ü  Eat healthy. Proper diet and nutrition reduces the risk of heart disease and angina. Lower the amount of salt and cholesterol in your diet ü  Exercise regularly. Exercise strengthens the heart and reduces the chance of heart disease ü  See your doctor regularly ü  Take your medication as prescribed by your doctor