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Symptoms

Angina

Angina is the uncomfortable feeling or pain in the chest caused by narrowing of the coronary arteries. It is a symptom of the problem not a disease in itself. A narrowed artery restricts the flow of blood and oxygen to the heart muscle. If you get angina (chest pain or discomfort) for the first time you should call 999 immediately as it could be a heart attack.

Heart attack


A heart attack happens when a coronary artery gets blocked by a blood clot. Judy O’Sullivan  of the British Heart Foundation says the classic or typical symptoms of a heart attack include pain in the centre of the chest which can spread up to the arms, neck or jaw line. Some people also feel nauseated or sweaty. Women can experience the typical symptoms but often their symptoms are more vague such as a dull ache in the chest spreading to the back or pain that feels more like indigestion. Sadly women wait longer than men before calling an ambulance when they are having a heart attack. The longer they wait the greater risk of permanent damage to their heart muscle and of dying. Doubt Kills so call 999 immediately if you think you are having a heart attack.  

Heart Failure -
Heart failure occurs when the heart muscle is damaged and no longer pumps effectively. It most commonly occurs as a result of a heart attack.

SYMPTOMS:
• Short of breath, especially when lying down flat
• Tired, washed out feeling
• Swollen ankles or legs
• Weight gain due to fluid retention
• if you notice that you are retaining fluid around your ankles seek medical help – you can manage heart failure with drugs and lifestyle changes.

Information provided by the British Heart Foundation www.bhf.org.uk/ or Heart HelpLine: 08450 70 80 70 (open Mon, Tues, Fri 9am-5pm and Weds, Thurs 8am-6pm).
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