When chest pain comes up, it can be a scary moment. But it doesn’t mean for sure it’s a heart attack. So how do you know if it might be one?
Symptoms of a heart attack
There are a few different symptoms that might appear when someone has a heart attack. Some of the most common symptoms are:
- Chest pain or discomfort (pressure, fullness, squeezing feelings) in the middle of the chest, lasting more than a few minutes
- Feeling weak, light-headed or faint; may feel a “cold sweat”
- Pain or discomfort in the neck, jaw or back
- Pain or discomfort in the arms and/or shoulders (it could be in both arms or just one)
- Shortness of breath
A note for women
Heart attacks can show up differently in different genders. The symptoms above tend to be the most common for a heart attack. But women may have those symptoms AND:
- Indigestion
- Nausea and vomiting
- Heartburn
- Extreme fatigue
- Upper body discomfort
- Back or jaw pain
When should I call a doctor or ask for help?
- If you notice any of the symptoms mentioned above in you or someone else, call 9-1-1 immediately.
- The chances of surviving a heart attack are better the sooner you get treatment.