Heart Attack Warning Signs
Key points
- The warning signs of heart attack might seem obvious, but the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute says many people take a "wait-and-see" attitude when they experience heart attack symptoms.
- Despite the popular image of a heart attack - someone suddenly clutching his or her chest and falling over - most heart attacks begin slowly, as mild pain or discomfort in the chest.
- According to the American Heart Association, the most common warning signs of a heart attack include: chest discomfort; discomfort in other upper body areas, such as one or both arms, back, neck, jaw or stomach; shortness of breath; breaking out in a cold sweat; nausea; or lightheadedness.
- If you experience these symptoms, seek medical help immediately.
The warning signs of heart attack might seem obvious, but the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute says many people take a "wait-and-see" attitude when they experience heart attack symptoms. Waiting two hours or more can mean death or permanent damage to the heart.
Despite the popular image of a heart attack - someone suddenly clutching his or her chest and falling over - most heart attacks begin slowly, as mild pain or discomfort in the chest.
According to the American Heart Association, the most common warning signs of a heart attack include: chest discomfort; discomfort in other upper body areas, such as one or both arms, back, neck, jaw or stomach; shortness of breath; breaking out in a cold sweat; nausea; or lightheadedness.
If you experience these symptoms, seek medical help immediately.
Written and revised by
Gerald Hurowitz, M.D.
Our doctors write and review articles for accuracy and keep them up to date.
health.am provides general information, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified health professional about your own health.
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