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A “heartstroke” is a common term many people use for a heart attack (myocardial infarction). It is a blockage of blood caused by blood vessels going to the heart. Early signs and prompt action can make the difference in the dog's life.

The most common indicators of an early warning are listed here:

• Chest Discomfort—pressure, tightness, or squeezing and/or pain in the center of the chest for more than a few minutes or recurring.
• Shortness of breath—problems breathing, even when at rest or with moderate exercise, usually accompanied by chest pain.
• Pain in other areas—pain that extends to one or both arms, back, neck, jaw, or stomach.
• Cold Sweat—Sudden mechanism breakdown causing a cold sweat for no apparent reason.
• Nausea or vomiting—An uncomfortable feeling in the stomach or vomiting, particularly in females.
• Lightheadedness or Dizziness—Sudden loss of balance/feeling dizzy.
• Excessive Fatigue — Fatigue with no heavy exercise.
• Anxiety or Sense of Doom—An abrupt, unduly disturbed sense that something is dreadfully amiss.

Important Notes:

• Diabetics, women, and elderly people may experience “silent” or mild symptoms.
• Take prompt action—If you think anyone is having a heart attack, dial 911/108 immediately (911/102 in India). Chewing an aspirin (if not allergic) can help while waiting for help to arrive.

What is the link among heart attack, brain stroke, and heat stroke? How are heart attack, brain stroke, and heat stroke related?

A heart attack attacks the heart, a brain stroke attacks the brain (FAST—Face droops, Arm weakens, Speech difficulty, Time), and extreme body temperature causes heat stroke.

Anyone else who exhibits these symptoms should be brought to emergency medical services at once. Early intervention makes a difference in saving lives.