According to a recent study, almost half of heart attack patients get in the car and drive themselves to the emergency room. This is a bad decision for two reasons:
The key to surviving a heart attack is to get fast treatment. Clot-busting drugs and other emergency treatments can stop a heart attack as it is occurring and prevent permanent damage to the heart muscle. A patient who drives himself to the emergency room may delay life-saving medical care.
Drivers who are suffering from a heart attack or other serious illnesses are at high risk for causing an Atlanta car crash. Not only is it hard to concentrate on driving while worrying about potentially serious symptoms, but there is also a high risk of passing out at the wheel.
The best way to get to the hospital after a heart attack is to take an ambulance. Not only is this the safer option for everyone on the road, but taking the ambulance means that the patient will be seen immediately.
Know the following symptoms of heart attacks. If you have any of these symptoms, call an ambulance right away - don't drive.
Chest discomfort, pressure, or pain
Pain the shoulders, arms, backs, teeth, or jaw
Nausea or vomiting
Indigestion that doesn't go away
Sweating
Shortness of breath
Dizziness
Fainting
Flu-like symptoms
If you are injured in an Atlanta car wreck caused by a driver suffering from medical problems, you may be eligible for insurance compensation. An Atlanta auto accident attorney can explain. Contact Shane Smith Law at (980) 246-2656