How Long Does A Heart Attack Last If Untreated? (What Patients Need To Know)

Sarhan Basem
credit: medicalnewstoday

Brussels (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – If you are experiencing chest pain, shortness of breath, or lightheadedness, you should immediately call 911 and go to the hospital. Unresponsive or irregular breathing is a sign of a heart attack, and if left untreated, a heart attack can lead to death. A heart attack can last for hours, days, or even weeks. However, the average length of time is about three to four hours. If you experience intense pain in one or more locations in the chest or shortness of breath it can be dangerous. Moreover, the risk factors include death or other problem. Some common symptoms of a heart attack are severe sweating, nausea, and vomiting.

What Is A Heart Attack?

A heart attack is a condition in which the heart muscle becomes damaged. The damage can cause the heart to stop beating. It can occur anywhere from the chest to the lower part of the stomach. People with coronary heart disease are at a higher risk of getting a heart attack. When the heart attack is not treated properly it leads to heart failure in severe conditions.

If left untreated, heart attacks can last for hours, days, or many weeks. In most cases, the longer the heart attack goes untreated, the worse the prognosis. When you or someone you know is experiencing some symptoms it is time to get medical help. You will be surprised to know that the symptoms among men and women can be different. However, the common symptoms of a heart attack include the following:

  • Chest discomfort or pain
  • Shortness of breath Sweating
  • Nausea
  • Shock
  • Fainting
  • Lightheadedness

How Long Does a Heart Attack Last If Untreated?

A heart attack can last for a few hours, a few days, or even a few weeks. If you don’t get medical help right away, it can lead to death. Most people who have a heart attack will feel chest pain. This pain can be so intense that it feels like somebody is squeezing your chest. It is likely to spread to your arms and legs, and you may feel short of breath. You may also see blue or red spots in front of your eyes.

If you think you have a heart attack, don’t wait for the pain to get worse. Go to the hospital immediately. Even if you don’t have any of the classic signs of a heart attack, go to the hospital or get medical help at home. Heart attacks can happen to people who don’t have any of the classic symptoms. If you don’t go to the hospital, the heart attack may become worse and lead to death. 

A heart attack can last anywhere from a few minutes to a few hours. The length of time is dependent on the severity of the heart attack. A mild heart attack will last less than an hour and a severe heart attack may last for days.

How To Treat a Heart Attack?

If you or someone you know is having a heart attack, please call 9-1-1 immediately. A heart attack is a life-threatening emergency and can be fatal if not treated quickly. The following are steps that can be taken to help prevent a heart attack. If one does occur, it can help you treat the condition for the better. When you know you are having a heart attack, do the following:

  • Call 911
  • Go to a hospital soon
  • Try to get rest as much as possible
  • Avoid heavy exercise
  • Eat a balanced diet
  • Drink plenty of fluids
  • Get professional help immediately

If you have any type of chest pain, shortness of breath, sweating, nausea, or lightheadedness, get immediate help. Untreated heart attacks can lead to death in as little as 30 minutes. These are the most common type of death in the United States. While the leading cause of death for men and women over the age of 50. Fortunately, there are treatments available that can save your life. Early treatment is the key to success. If you remain physically active there are lesser chances of getting a heart attack.

What Are The Risks Of Not Treating A Heart Attack?

If you have had a heart attack, it is important to know that not treating it could lead to complications. As the blood flow to the heart stops, this condition is severe. Without treatment, the heart will not be able to pump as well as it should. If you do not take care of the heart attack, your body will go into shock and lead to death. 

It’s very common to have a heart attack without any warning. It’s important to know what to do if you are having one because it brings damage to the heart muscle. The first thing you can do is call 911 and seek medical attention immediately. If you are unable to reach the emergency line, call your local hospital or call your family doctor.

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What can You Do to recover after a Heart Attack?

Heart attacks are the number one killer of men and women in the United States. Approximately, one in four people will die from a heart attack in their lifetime. You must take care of your heart by exercising and eating right. After a heart attack, it is important to avoid activities that increase your heart rate and stress your body. Instead, try to rest and relax. The best way to recover after a heart attack is to slow down your lifestyle and avoid stressful situations.

Most commonly heart attacks occur due to family history or people with high blood pressure. This condition cannot be taken lightly. If you have been through a heart attack, it is important to know what you can do to recover. The first thing is to get medical help as soon as possible. Try to take your medications as prescribed. If you are not sure what your medications are, talk to your doctor or emergency room staff.

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Brussels Morning is a daily online newspaper based in Belgium. BM publishes unique and independent coverage on international and European affairs. With a Europe-wide perspective, BM covers policies and politics of the EU, significant Member State developments, and looks at the international agenda with a European perspective.
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Sarhan Basem is Brussels Morning's Senior Correspondent to the European Parliament. With a Bachelor's degree in English Literature, Sarhan brings a unique blend of linguistic finesse and analytical prowess to his reporting. Specializing in foreign affairs, human rights, civil liberties, and security issues, he delves deep into the intricacies of global politics to provide insightful commentary and in-depth coverage. Beyond the world of journalism, Sarhan is an avid traveler, exploring new cultures and cuisines, and enjoys unwinding with a good book or indulging in outdoor adventures whenever possible.
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