Change In Heartbeat: Emergencies


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Emergencies


emergency

Do you have any of the following symptoms that require emergency treatment? Call 911 or other emergency services immediately.

  • Unconsciousness. See Rescue Breathing and Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) in the topic Dealing With Emergencies.
  • Chest discomfort or pain that is crushing or squeezing or feels like a heavy weight on the chest
  • Chest discomfort or pain that occurs with:
    • Sweating
    • Shortness of breath
    • Nausea or vomiting
    • Discomfort or pain that spreads from the chest to the neck, jaw, or one or both shoulders or arms
    • Dizziness or lightheadedness
    • Fast heart rate or irregular heart rhythm
  • Moderate to severe difficulty breathing
  • Shock
  • Sudden heart rate or rhythm change with nausea, lightheadedness, fainting, or severe fatigue


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Last updated: April 27, 2007
Author: Jan Nissl, RN, BS
Reviewed By: William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine, H. Michael O'Connor, MD - Emergency Medicine
Editors: Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Tracy Landauer

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. By using AOL Body, you indicate that you have read, understood, and agreed to our Terms of Service, and AOL Body Advertising Policy. Read more about our content partners.

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