Do You Know the Signs and Symptoms of a Heart Attack?

By Dina Martinez, Senior Health Educator

February is American Heart Month!

Do you know the signs and symptoms of a heart attack?

Some heart attacks are sudden and intense—the “movie heart attack,” where no one doubts what’s happening. But most heart attacks start slowly, with mild pain or discomfort. Often people affected are not sure what’s wrong and wait too long before getting help. Here are some signs that may indicate someone is having a heart attack.

• Chest Discomfort.  Most heart attacks involve discomfort in the center of the chest that last more than a few minutes, or that comes and goes.  It can feel like uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain.
• Discomfort in other areas of the upper body.  Symptoms can include pain or discomfort in one or both arms, back, neck, jaw or stomach.
• Shortness of breath with or without chest discomfort.
• Other signs may include breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea, or lightheadedness.

As with men, women’s most common heart attack symptom is chest pain or discomfort.  However, women are somewhat more likely than men to experience some of the other  symptoms, particularly shortness of breath, nausea/vomiting, and back or jaw pain.

Learn the signs, but remember even if you’re not sure it’s a heart attack, have it checked out (tell a doctor about your symptoms).  Minutes matter! Fast action can save lives--- maybe your own. Don’t wait, call 9-1-1 or your emergency response number if you have any of the listed symptoms.  For more information visit: www.heart.org.

 This information is intended for general education purposes only.  This information should not be a substitute for professional medical advice.