Heart attack: symptoms and emergency help
If you suspect a heart attack, seek emergency help rather than an appointment. Learn the warning signs and what to do while help arrives.
Do not wait with emergency symptoms
New chest pressure or tightness, pain spreading to an arm or the jaw, breathlessness or a cold sweat may signal a heart attack. If you suspect one, call 112 in Türkiye; do not wait for symptoms to pass or for an appointment. Do not drive yourself.
Preview draft: clinical content and translations await hospital review.
What is a heart attack?
A severe reduction or interruption of blood reaching the heart muscle can damage it. Early assessment and treatment may limit damage; recovery varies with the person and the area affected.
Symptoms are not the same for everyone
- Discomfort may spread to one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw or upper abdomen.
- Nausea, dizziness and unusual tiredness can occur, sometimes without obvious chest pain.
- Symptoms may begin mildly or come and go. This does not mean there is no danger.
While waiting for help
Tell the 112 operator your location and symptoms. Follow their instructions; do not delay calling to look for medicine or try another measure.
Stop exertion and rest comfortably. Ask someone with you to monitor your responsiveness and breathing; do not take someone else’s medicine.
If the person is unresponsive and not breathing normally, tell 112 immediately and follow the operator’s CPR instructions.
Assessment and follow-up
The team assesses you with an ECG (a recording of heart electrical activity), blood tests and other investigations when needed. Medicines, a procedure to restore blood flow or surgery may be considered; treatment is not identical for everyone.
After discharge, follow your personal plan for medicines, check-ups and returning to daily activity. Do not wait for a scheduled review if new symptoms develop. Describing a treatment here does not confirm its availability at our hospital.
Information sources
These sources support general information; they do not confirm our hospital’s services or clinical approval.
This information is general and does not replace individual diagnosis or treatment advice. Discuss your own situation with your healthcare team.
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