The NHS has launched a campaign urging people to call 999 if they experience early symptoms of a heart attack, such as sweating, uneasiness, or chest tightness. A poll found that fewer than half of people know to dial 999 for these vague signs, which could lead to thousands of lives being saved.
Each year in England, there are over 80,000 hospital admissions for heart attacks. The overall survival rate is 70%, but this rises to 90% for those who seek early hospital treatment. The campaign, running from 14 February to 31 March, aims to raise awareness of common early symptoms.
In a poll of 2,000 people, only 41% knew sweating was an early symptom, and just 27% recognised light-headedness, feeling weak or uneasy as a sign. Prof Stephen Powis, NHS England's medical director, said: 'It can be easy to dismiss early symptoms as they don't always feel severe, but it is never too early to dial 999.'
The campaign also highlights the difference between a heart attack and a cardiac arrest. A cardiac arrest often has no warning, and the person quickly loses consciousness, requiring immediate treatment. A heart attack can lead to a cardiac arrest.
Common heart attack symptoms include chest pain (pressure, heaviness, tightness), pain spreading to arms, jaw, neck, back or abdomen, shortness of breath, nausea, and a sense of anxiety. Women are more likely to experience symptoms like shortness of breath, nausea, or back and jaw pain.
