This Valentine’s Day we’re asking you to love yourself, more specifically; to love your heart. Because frankly, having optimal health is a far greater gift than any box of chocolates. Treat yourself this Valentine’s Day with an investment in you and your loved ones by following our guide on how to prevent a heart attack and provide heart attack First Aid in the case of an emergency.

Valentine’s Day is the most iconic awareness day around the globe, with the occasion being celebrated in countries in the Asian Pacific, Americas, UK and Europe. In recent years the concept has not just been exclusive to the Romeos and Juliet’s of the world, your everyday romantics are spreading the love to family, friends and even pets!

So why not do something for yourself this Valentine’s Day? After all your health is the cornerstone to every aspect of your life; your ability to socialise, work, exercise and travel all depends on it. Without it, you wouldn’t be able to enjoy any of the special moments we all hold close to our hearts.

By investing in your heart today, your future self is sure to thank you later for all the additional moments of joy, laughter and love that you may not otherwise have been able to enjoy.

A Heart Attack Explained

When fatty plaque condensed with cholesterol crack in the blood vessels travelling to the heart and a blood clot forms over top the heart becomes distressed. The clot prevents blood flow to the area of the heart and damages the muscle, causing the onset of a heart attack.

A heart attack is a health emergency and triple zero (000) should always be called immediately.

What Happens When You Suffer From A Heart Attack?

The sudden loss of blood flow to the heart may cause the heart to beat chaotically; this is known as ventricular fibrillation. This can initiate a sudden cardiac arrest which requires CPR and defibrillation immediately.

Learn more about the differences between a heart attack and sudden cardiac arrest here.

Heart Attack Statistics

A heart attack is a serious health emergency that many Australians suffer each year. It is one of the most common health events leading to hospitalisation or death across the nation. These statistics from the Heart Foundation are a confronting reminder to all about the prevalence and impact this health event has on our country.

Are You At Risk Of A Heart Attack?

There are many conditions which can contribute to the likelihood of suffering a heart attack. You might be at risk if you meet any of the below:

Heart Attack Preventative Measures

If you think you might be at risk of suffering a heart attack it’s important to implement some lifestyle changes to minimise your chances of suffering a potentially fatal health emergency. Important things to action include:

Heart Attack Signs And Symptoms

The signs and symptoms of a heart attack can either appear instantly or over a matter of minutes, developing as each second passes. You might experience one or a combination of symptoms so listen to your body diligently and know the warning signs.

The severity of heart attack symptoms can differ by the individual but they will generally last for a 10 minute period. Signs and symptoms to look out for include:

• Discomfort or pain in the chest (developing gradually or quickly)
• Chest pain might feel constrictive, dense or pressure-like
• Chest pain may be severe, moderate or mild
• Chest pain might spread to the neck, jaw, throat, shoulders, back, arm/s, wrist/s, hand/s

Sometimes people do not experience any chest pain but experience the following symptoms:

• Heavy arms
• Choking sensation, shortness of breath
• Sweating
• Dizziness, faintness
• Nauseousness, vomiting

The signs and symptoms of a heart attack can be similar to indigestion or muscle soreness. So if you experience any of the listed symptoms be careful not to incorrectly self-diagnose.

If the possibility of indigestion or muscle soreness is unlikely, seek medical assistance immediately to avoid going into sudden cardiac arrest or suffering from permanent damage.

Heart Attack First Aid Tip

1. Follow DRSABCD
2. Sit or lie the casualty down into a comfortable position
3. Ask the casualty to explain their symptoms
4. If symptoms are severe, continue to develop, or last for more than 10 minutes call triple zero (000). Follow the advice of the operator until medical assistance arrives
5. Loosen any restricting clothing
6. Check that the casualty does not have an aspirin allergy and is allowed to take aspirin. If it is safe for them to take, provide the casualty with one aspirin tablet (300mg)
7. Reassure the casualty until the ambulance arrives
8. Monitor and record symptom development

If the casualty is unconscious or is falling into unconsciousness:

1. Place casualty into the recovery position
2. Follow DRSABCD
3. Call triple zero (000) for immediate medical assistance

A heart attack is a serious health event; the ramifications it can cause can be life-changing and possibly even result in death. If you or someone you know is at risk it’s important to educate yourself and implement possible preventive steps to forestall the onset of cardiac arrest.

Remember to listen to your body and be diligent with your heart health as preventative measures are essential to minimising your risk. Don’t take life for granted, invest in yourself and your health in an attempt to ensure you’re able to continue to live a full and happy life for as long as possible.

Note: As a token of adoration for the people you love or in honour of someone you lost to heart disease, wear red with Heart Research Australia this Valentine’s Day.