Heart Attack Warning Signs
A heart attack can occur at any time - and they are not always sudden and intense. The Society of Chest Pain Centers reports that 50% of sudden cardiac deaths occur outside of a hospital, suggesting that many people do not act on early warning signs. Knowing and recognizing the warning signs of a heart attack can save a life. When it comes to your heart, every minute matters.
If you or someone you love is experiencing any symptoms or signs of a heart attack, call 9-1-1 immediately and go directly to the emergency room.
Many heart attacks start slowly with only mild pain or discomfort. Some people do not experience chest pain (also known as angina) but instead have other symptoms. Heart attack symptoms can include:
Chest Discomfort
- Uncomfortable pressure, heaviness
- Squeezing, tightness
- Discomfort lasts more than two minutes, may come and go
Discomfort In Other Areas Of The Upper Body
- One or both arms
- Back, neck or jaw
- Stomach or abdomen
Other Signs (With Or Without Chest Discomfort)
- Shortness of breath
- Cold sweat
- Nausea, vomiting
- Light-headedness
- Extreme weakness/fatigue
Women and Heart Attacks
Many women notice warning signs of a heart attack but choose to ignore them. Participants in an American Heart Association study said they hesitated to call for help because they were uncertain if the signs were serious, they thought they could treat themselves, or they were simply too busy with family demands.
Although men and women may experience common heart attack symptoms, the symptoms of a heart attack in women may include the following signs, some which are unique to women:
- Uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain in the center of the chest that lasts several minutes or goes away and comes back
- Pain or discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw or stomach
- Shortness of breath with or without chest discomfort
- A cold sweat, nausea or lightheadedness
- Nausea and/or vomiting
If you experience any of these signs or symptoms, call 9-1-1 immediately.
Click here to take an online heart risk assessment to determine if you are at risk for a heart attack.
Source