What might a casualty experiencing a heart attack fear?

A casualty experiencing a heart attack is likely to experience a range of intense emotions, primarily driven by the physical sensations and symptoms they are facing. One of the most prominent fears during such an event is the fear of death. This can stem from the acute pain and the unfamiliarity of the situation, leading the individual to believe they might be facing a life-threatening condition. The strong physical discomfort and the body’s responses, such as shortness of breath or intense chest pain, can heighten this fear and often cause panic.

While it is possible for a person experiencing a heart attack to feel unwell or fear other consequences, none convey the immediate and profound fear that comes with contemplating their mortality. Fear of dehydration, while important in other contexts, is not typically associated with the acute experience of a heart attack and does not capture the emotional response that someone may have in that moment. Thus, the fear of death is the most relevant and intense fear in that scenario.