Basic Life Support (BLS) Practice Exam

Which population is most likely to show atypical signs of a heart attack?

1. Younger-aged individuals

2. Individuals with diabetes

3. People who are overweight

4. White, middle-aged men

The correct answer is: Individuals with diabetes

Individuals with diabetes are often more likely to present atypical signs of a heart attack due to the effects of diabetes on the nervous system. Diabetic neuropathy, a common complication of diabetes, can impair the sensation of pain. As a result, these individuals may not experience the classic symptoms typically associated with a heart attack, such as severe chest pain or discomfort. Instead, they may report more subtle symptoms, like fatigue, nausea, or shortness of breath, which can make it more challenging to recognize that they are having a heart attack. In contrast, younger-aged individuals might exhibit more typical symptoms because they tend to have a lower prevalence of underlying cardiovascular disease or associated complications. People who are overweight do have an increased risk for heart attacks and may experience standard symptoms. White, middle-aged men are often highlighted in statistics for heart attack symptoms; therefore, they are more prone to presenting typical signs rather than atypical ones. Understanding these nuances is crucial for recognizing heart attack symptoms across diverse populations.