Final answer:
The signs and symptoms of a heart attack include chest pain, shortness of breath, irregular heartbeat, and nausea, among others. It's critical to call emergency services immediately and have the person stay calm. Certain risk factors like high blood pressure increase the chances of a heart attack.
Step-by-step explanation:
If you suspect that a 48-year-old male is having a heart attack, it is crucial to be aware of the common signs and symptoms associated with it. Individuals experiencing a heart attack may show symptoms such as sudden chest pain or pressure, which is medically termed as angina pectoris. This pain often radiates down the left arm, especially in males. The individual may also experience difficulty breathing (dyspnea), irregular heartbeat (palpitations), nausea and vomiting, excessive sweating (diaphoresis), anxiety, and fainting (syncope). However, it's important to note that between 22 and 64 percent of myocardial infarctions can occur without any symptoms, making them particularly dangerous.
Risk factors such as hypertension, or high blood pressure, smoking, diabetes, lack of exercise, and high cholesterol contribute to the possibility of having a heart attack. It's known that coronary heart disease, often caused by atherosclerosis of arteries supplying the heart muscle, is a leading cause of death worldwide. In an emergency situation, seek immediate medical attention. Call emergency services and ensure that the individual remains calm until help arrives. Do not attempt to drive the person to the hospital unless absolutely necessary. It is also advisable to have the person chew an aspirin, as long as they are not allergic, to help prevent further blood clotting.