In the last five years, research has shown that up to 80 percent of
second heart attacks can be prevented. With aggressive risk factor
management you can reduce your chance of a second heart attack.
This is truly a revolutionary change in expectations. So instead of
having a one-in-four chance of a second attack, you now have a onein-
twenty chance. That’s really great!
What are the warning signs of a second heart
attack?
The signs are the same as for the first: any unexplained chest pain
that lasts for more than five minutes. These may occur during exercise,
when going out into cold weather, or after a meal. When these
pains occur at rest and become more frequent, this is called unstable
angina and is a clear signal that a new heart attack might develop.
As you have already experienced a heart attack, any pain of this
sort and any feeling of pressure or heaviness in the chest are major
warning signs. For a heart attack survivor, any of these symptoms
require immediate contact with a medical facility or your health care
professional.
