EMS Tips
Minutes Count
Know the Symptoms of Heart Attack and Stroke ~ Know When to Call 911
“Time is Muscle. There are proven benefits of quickly restoring blood flow to the heart muscle during a heart attack. It is critical to recognize heart attack signs and symptoms, and get to a hospital where you can receive the appropriate care.”- American Heart Association
Signs of a Heart Attack
Shortness of breath
Pain in the chest, may include a feeling of pressure.
Pain in the upper body, may include pain in the jaw, back, arm, neck or stomach.
Lightheadedness, becoming sweaty or nauseous
Signs of a Stroke
Sudden numbness of weakness of face, arm or leg (especially when on one side)
Sudden confusion or trouble speaking or understanding speech
Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes
Sudden trouble walking, dizziness or loss of balance / coordination
Sudden severe headache with no known cause
If any of these symptoms are present, it’s time to call 911. Not all people will have “typical” symptoms. If you are not sure, call 911. The Elsmere Fire District Advanced Life Support Ambulance will respond and personnel can assist you in evaluating your symptoms and helping to determine if you need to be transported to the emergency room.