Signs of a heart attack include a variety of symptoms, which can differ somewhat between individuals and between men and women. Common signs are:
- Chest pain or discomfort, often described as pressure, tightness, squeezing, heaviness, or aching in the center or left side of the chest. This pain can last more than a few minutes or come and go
- Pain or discomfort spreading to other areas such as one or both arms (often the left), shoulders, back, neck, jaw, teeth, or upper belly
- Shortness of breath, which may occur with or without chest discomfort
- Cold sweat or breaking out in a cold sweat
- Nausea or vomiting
- Lightheadedness, dizziness, or feeling faint
- Fatigue or unusual tiredness, especially noted in women
- Heartburn or indigestion-like feelings
- Anxiety or a feeling similar to a panic attack, particularly in women
- Rapid or irregular heartbeat (palpitations)
Some women may experience atypical symptoms such as pain in the back, neck, or jaw, shortness of breath, nausea, vomiting, or unusual fatigue more often than chest pain
. Because heart attack symptoms can vary widely and may be mild or severe, immediate medical attention is crucial if these signs appear, especially chest discomfort and shortness of breath
. If someone shows these symptoms, calling emergency services (911 or local emergency number) immediately is essential to prevent heart damage or death
. In summary, the key signs of a heart attack are chest pain or discomfort, pain spreading to upper body areas, shortness of breath, cold sweat, nausea, lightheadedness, and fatigue, with some variation in symptoms between men and women
