IS IT A HEART ATTACK?
Key Takeaways
HEART ATTACK SYMPTOMS ARE DIFFERENT FOR EVERYBODY
Discomfort (squeezing, pressure, fullness or pain) in the center of the chest that lasts more than a few minutes or that goes away and comes back is the hallmark of a heart attack.
KNOW THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN HEARTBURN AND A HEART ATTACK
If the pain seems worse than heartburn or different than what you normally experience, you should call 9-1-1 immediately or get to an emergency room right away.
LISTEN TO WHAT YOUR BODY IS TELLING YOU
You know your body, and you know when something isn’t right. Go with your gut. When it comes to your heart, it’s always better to be safe than sorry.
Don’t ignore heart attack warning signs
- Chest pressure, tightness, and heaviness: Most heart attacks involve pain or discomfort in the chest that lasts for more than a few minutes or goes away and comes back.
- Extreme fatigue: A sense of unusual or extreme tiredness that lasts for days, or weeks, can be a sign of heart trouble. This symptom can be more common in women.
- Fainting and lightheadedness: This sensation can involve dizziness, extreme weakness or anxiety.
- Nausea: A feeling of sickness associated with your stomach, but can be heart-related.
- Pain in shoulders, neck, jaw, or arms: Report any unusual upper- body symptoms to your doctor.
- Shortness of breath with or without chest pain: Heart attack sufferers can have trouble breathing for no apparent reason.
- Sweating: This can feel similar to hormonal hot flashes or night sweats.
