Heart Attack Warning Signs

Every year, over one million Americans will experience a heart attack.

People often dismiss heart attack warning signs, such as chest pain. Many people wait too long before getting help. Warning signs may go away, and then come back. Don't delay! Get help right away! If you have chest pain or other signs of heart attack, call 911 immediately.

Early heart attack warning signs:

• Chest discomfort, pressure, squeezing, fullness, or pain
• Discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw, or stomach
• Shortness of breath with, or before, chest pain
• Cold sweats, nausea, or light-headedness

Women and Heart Attacks

In the United States, more women die from heart disease than men. Women have different warning signs, and their heart attacks often go unnoticed.

Signs of heart attack for women may include:

• Pressure, fullness, squeezing pain in the center of the chest, spreading to the neck, shoulder, or jaw
• Light-headedness, fainting, sweating, nausea, or shortness of breath, with or without chest pain
• Pressure or discomfort in the upper stomach
• Back pain
• Unusual fatigue or tiredness
• Unusual shortness of breath
• Dizziness
• Nausea or feeling sick

Remember: Don't delay! Call 911 right away!