An Overland Park, Kan., man is lucky to be alive after suffering a massive heart attack. Tuesday at Menorah Medical Center he got to thank the first responders and medical personnel that helped save his life.
Eric Matt had just finished a half marathon in April of 2012 when he started having symptoms. His left anterior descending artery — often called the widow maker – ruptured and his heart stopped.
Cardiologist Dr. Paul Nager said the odds are one in 189,000 to suffer a heart attack toward the end of a marathon or half marathon. He says advancements in technology and getting medical attention in the field and early is key to survival.
Quick and easy warning signs of a heart attack
• Uncomfortable pressure, fullness, squeezing or pain in the center of the chest, lasting more than a few minutes.
• Pain spreading to the shoulders, neck or arms.
• Chest discomfort with lightheadedness, nausea fainting, sweating, or shortness of breath.
• Jaw pain, radiating down the neck.
• Upper back pain without apparent cause.
• Shortness of breath with mild exertion (e.g. climbing stairs.)
• Racing heart or irregular heartbeat rhythm.