by KYW's medical editor Dr. Brian McDonough
There is no doubt that communication of medical information is crucial and can save lives. A perfect example is in the case of a heart attack. There are classic warning signs including crushing pain in the chest. Some people describe the pain as if an elephant is standing on their chest.
Other symptoms include pain radiating to the jaw or down the left arm. But, this is not always the case. In fact the classic examples aren’t always classic. Some people feel very little pain or experience a sense of indigestion and sweating. This is particularly true when it comes to women.
We have learned over the years that many women have vague symptoms and can ignore their heart attacks. This can be a deadly mistake because ignoring a heart attack means the heart is supplied with very little oxygen and can slowly die, never returning to its former self. People can become extremely weak and many die. If you have any concerns that you are having a heart attack talk to your doctor and get help.
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