Heart Health: When to Call 911 vs. When to Chill

Heart health is no joke, but it’s not always easy to tell when you’re dealing with a full-blown emergency or just a fleeting chest pain from too many tacos. Let’s break down the signs that scream, “Call 911 now!” versus those that say, “Take a breather, but don’t panic.”

Signs of a Heart Attack: Call 911 Immediately

Heart attacks are life-threatening and require immediate attention. Look for these warning signs:

• Chest pain or discomfort that feels like pressure, squeezing, or fullness.

• Pain radiating to the arms, neck, jaw, or back.

• Shortness of breath, nausea, or lightheadedness.

Heart attack symptoms can look different in women and the elderly. Instead of the classic crushing chest pain, they may feel:

• A general sense of being unwell.

• Back pain.

• Indigestion.

How many of us feel those symptoms on a daily or regular basis? You can see why women are more at risk of not getting the medical attention when they need it —but when in doubt, trust your instincts and call for help.

Action Plan:

• Call 911 without hesitation.

• Begin CPR if the person becomes unresponsive.

  
  

If you’re debating whether it’s serious, remember—paramedics won’t judge your taco consumption.

When It Might Not Be a Heart Attack

Not all chest pains are created equal. Common, less urgent causes include:

• Heartburn or acid reflux.

• Muscle strain from shoveling snow or lifting heavy objects.

• Stress or anxiety (your body’s way of saying, “Chill out!”).

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What to Do:

• Rest and monitor your symptoms.

• Take antacids if you suspect heartburn.

• See your doctor for recurring or unexplained discomfort.

How to Keep Your Heart Healthy

Prevention is key to avoiding heart-related scares. Tips include:

• Exercise Regularly: Aim for 150 minutes of moderate activity per week.

• Eat Smart: Focus on heart-healthy foods like fruits, veggies, and lean proteins.

• Manage Stress: Practice mindfulness or yoga to keep your ticker in check.

• Know Your Numbers: Keep tabs on blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels.

  
  

Knowing when to call 911 versus when to relax can save lives and unnecessary panic. When in doubt, always err on the side of caution—because your heart deserves the best care. Keep it healthy, keep it happy, and keep loving life.