2. Call the Paramedics first and if you are able, chew an aspirin. Time is of the essence but DO NOT TRY to drive yourself to the hospital. You would only be endangering yourself and others. DO NOT ask your husband, as he will be panicked and looking at you instead of the road. In addition, Paramedics have the necessary medical knowledge and equipment needed to save your life.
3. DON'T CALL YOUR DOCTOR. He or she can't help you and doesn't know where you live. If it's at night you may not be able to reach a doctor. You will only be wasting valuable time. Plus, doctors don't carry the proper equipment. Paramedics do - most importantly, oxygen, which you will need ASAP.
4. DON'T ASSUME IT IS NOT A HEART ATTACK. Many believe that it couldn't be a heart attack because their cholesterol levels are normal. Research has shown that cholesterol is rarely the cause unless accompanied by high blood pressure. (MI's: Myocardial infarctions are usually the result of long-term stress and inflammation in the body, which dumps all sorts of deadly hormones into the system to sludge up the works. Pain in the jaw can wake you in the middle of a sound sleep. Be careful and be aware. The more you know the better chances you have of surviving.)
If you have loved ones who may be at risk, whether they know it or not, make sure they know the symptoms, especially if they are women. Send them this info and urge them to get a check up. You just may be able to save a life.
Thanks to Diane K. for the in-depth info of her terrible experience. Her quick thinking and calm response saved her life and her experience may save the lives of others. I am glad to hear that she is doing well after her MI and hope she continues to enjoy good health. I hope that sharing her experience will help to educate others of the signs and symptoms of heart attacks in women. In addition, will provide them with the basic knowledge they need to prevent a death due to ignorance of MI's on the part of the public. Thank you, Diane K.
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