Tip of the day - Don't Delay It Can Be Deadly

Most people having a heart attack wait too long to seek medical help, and that can be a fatal mistake. People often take a wait-and-see approach, delaying because they:

* Do not recognize the symptoms of a heart attack — shortness of breath, chest pain, or discomfort in the upper back, neck, jaw or arms — and think that what they are feeling is due to something else.
* Are afraid or unwilling to admit that their symptoms could be serious.
* Are embarrassed about "causing a scene," or going to the hospital and finding out it is a false alarm.
* Do not understand the importance of getting to the hospital right away.

As a result, most heart attack victims wait two or more hours after their symptoms begin before they seek medical help. This delay can result in death or permanent heart damage — damage that can greatly reduce their ability to do everyday activities.

If you think you're having a heart attack, do not wait to call for medical help. Minutes do make a difference!