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Female Heart Attack Victims Commonly Encounter Cardiology Malpractice

Understanding Coronary Artery Disease (CAD)

The prospect of having a heart attack can be unnerving because it seems like it can happen to anyone, anywhere at any time. Even some of the seemingly healthiest people end up feeling that terrifying pain in their chest and find themselves in the emergency room. But how are you supposed to know if you're having a heart attack? In movies, people usually just grab their chest and collapse. However, it is not the norm and heart attacks usually begin with subtle symptoms that are often overlooked.

 

It is essential to know the major symptoms of a heart attack so you have the greatest chance at survival if something does happen. It will hopefully make you less likely to be a victim of cardiology malpractice also, because you can stand up for yourself and insist that you are exhibiting signs of a heart attack, even if the doctor believes otherwise. According to the Mayo Clinic, here are some signs that you or a loved one may be having a heart attack:

 

  • Discomfort or pain in the chest – There is no one "type" of pain you may feel. It can range from a tight ache, pressure, fullness, or even squeezing. The pain will usually last a few minutes and can come and go.

 

  • Shortness of breath – Usually before your chest starts to hurt, you may have trouble taking deep breaths.

 

  • Anxiety – Combined with the shortness of breath, you might think you're having a panic attack rather than a heart attack.

 

  • Pain in the upper body – The pain can radiate out to your shoulders, arms, back, neck, teeth or jaw. It is also possible for the upper body pain to be present without any pain or discomfort in the chest.

 

  • Sweating and Lightheadedness – You may feel dizzy, cold and clammy, or like you might pass out.

 

  • Nausea, vomiting and/or stomach pain – Your stomach troubles could feel like heart burn, or they may feel more like a wave of nausea.

 

The most important thing is that you should not wait to seek medical assistance. If you are having any of these symptoms—no matter how mild—you may want to consider a trip to see a medical professional immediately.

 

If you have already had a heart attack and you suspect you were the victim of malpractice, contact the cardiology malpractice attorneys at The Girards Law Firm today for a free consultation at 888-333-9709.