Recognizing The Symptoms Of Sudden Cardiac Arrest And Getting Medical Help

KYW Medical Reports Sponsored By Independence Blue Cross

By Dr. Brian McDonough, Medical Editor

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- Sudden cardiac arrest may not be as sudden as doctors have thought with at least half of the patients having at least some warning signs in the weeks before.

This is important because those who recognize the symptoms and reach out to their loved ones or call for medical help have a fivefold higher chance of living.

We know the symptoms. They include any combination of chest pain or tightness, pressure on the chest,  shortness of breath and even flu-like sensations such as nausea, back pain and abdominal pain.

The major lesson out of this study may be that in public education we need to consistently talk about these symptoms and the importance of not waiting for help. Time is crucial and we need to get out in front of this—get help as soon as possible.