Recognizing the Warning Signs of a Heart Attack

A heart attack can strike suddenly, and recognizing the warning signs could save a life—maybe even your own. Understanding the symptoms and acting quickly is crucial in preventing severe complications. Here are the key signs to watch for:

1. Chest Discomfort
The most common sign of a heart attack is discomfort in the chest. It may feel like pressure, tightness, fullness, or pain that lasts for more than a few minutes or comes and goes.

2. Shortness of Breath
Feeling breathless, even when resting or doing minimal activity, can be an early warning sign of a heart attack. It may occur with or without chest pain.

3. Pain in Other Areas of the Body
Heart attack pain isn’t limited to the chest. It can spread to the arms, back, neck, jaw, or stomach. Some people may only experience pain in these areas without noticeable chest discomfort.

4. Nausea, Indigestion, or Stomach Pain
Some people—especially women—experience nausea, vomiting, or stomach pain during a heart attack. This can sometimes be mistaken for heartburn or indigestion.

5. Cold Sweat and Dizziness
Breaking into a sudden cold sweat, feeling lightheaded, or experiencing dizziness can be warning signs of a heart attack, especially when combined with other symptoms.

6. Unusual Fatigue
Feeling extremely tired or fatigued for no clear reason, especially for days or weeks leading up to a heart attack, can be a subtle but important warning sign, particularly in women.

Act Fast: Time is Critical
If you or someone around you experiences these symptoms, call 911 immediately. Don’t ignore the warning signs or wait for the symptoms to pass. The faster medical help is received, the better the chances of survival and recovery.

Prevention is Key
While it’s important to recognize the signs of a heart attack, preventing one in the first place is even better. Maintain a heart-healthy lifestyle by:

• Eating a balanced diet
• Exercising regularly
• Managing stress
• Avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol
• Keeping blood pressure and cholesterol in check

Knowing the common warning signs of a heart attack can make all the difference. Stay informed, listen to your body, and encourage your loved ones to do the same.

The symptoms listed above are some of the most common heart attack symptoms.  Symptoms may vary from person to person.  If you think you are experiencing a heart attack, dial 911.

Posted Date: 2/11/2025