Heart attacks can happen suddenly, but early recognition of symptoms can save lives.

Common warning signs include:

• Chest pain or discomfort. Often described as pressure, squeezing or fullness, it may last for more than a few minutes or come and go. It may feel like indigestion. Or it may feel like someone is “standing on your chest.” The pain may radiate to either shoulder or arm, neck and/or jaw, or back.
• Shortness of breath may occur with or without chest discomfort.
• Nausea or lightheadedness. You may feel dizzy or unsteady; accompanied by cold sweats.
• Pain in other areas such as the back, neck, jaw or arms, which is often mistaken for other conditions.
• Unusual fatigue

The victim may not feel any pain at all—some heart attacks occur with no symptoms.

Heartburn vs. Heart Attack

The most common sign of a heart attack is chest pain, and it can sometimes be difficult to tell if it’s heartburn or something more serious.

If your pain resembles heartburn but seems worse or different than usual, seek help, especially if it’s accompanied by the other symptoms above.

Women’s Unique Symptoms

Like men, the most common heart attack symptom for women is chest pain or discomfort. But women may have other less telling symptoms like:

• Anxiety
• Shortness of breath
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Upset stomach
• Pain in the shoulder, back or arm
• Unusual tiredness and weakness

Get Help Immediately

Pay attention to your body. You know when something isn’t right, and it’s always better to be safe than sorry.

Call 911 if you or someone you know experiences any of these symptoms. It’s almost always the fastest way to get treatment.

Quick action is critical to minimize damage and save lives.