Early Symptoms of Heart Attack

Early heart attack symptoms may be mild. Do not ignore these early signs. Call your doctor or healthcare provider right away.

Getting treatment for early symptoms gives you a “window of opportunity.” A heart attack and heart damage can be prevented.

Know the early symptoms of a heart attack and act on them. Call your doctor or healthcare provider and see them right away.

Shortness of Breath with Normal Activities

Most of us are short of breath when we are exercising. If you have trouble breathing with daily activities, this is not normal. Tell your doctor right away.

Heartburn

If the feeling of heartburn is linked to something you just ate, that may be normal. If it happens often (even without food), heartburn can be an early symptom of a heart attack. If you need to take over-the-counter antacids regularly, talk to your doctor about this right away.

Discomfort or Pain

Pain with a heart attack may be described as:

• Crushing or squeezing pressure in the chest
• Pain in the shoulders, neck, one or both arms, and jaw

Even if the symptoms come and go, it is important to seek medical help right away.