Know the warning signs of a heart attack

Know the warning signs of a heart attack

Heart attacks can come out of no where or build up slowly. You may not know what’s happening or you may not even be sure you’re having a heart attack.

Unfortunately, many truck drivers are plagued with multiple heart attack risk factors. Age, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, excess weight and diabetes are all considered risk factors for heart attacks.

Here are the symptoms, according to the American Heart Association, that may mean a heart attack is happening: 

  • Chest discomfort: Discomfort in the center of the chest lasting for more than a few minutes, or goes away and returns. This chest discomfort may feel like uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain.
  • Discomfort in other areas of the upper body: Pain or discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw or stomach.
  • Shortness of breath: May happen with or without chest discomfort.
  • Other signs: Additional signs may include breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea or lightheadedness.

The AHA cautions that you should get checked out even if you’re not sure you’re experiencing a heart attack. The AHA suggests you should call 911 immediately even if you’re not sure it’s a heart attack.