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Symptoms of a Heart Attack

Possible heart attack symptoms in men and women:

  • Chest pressure, squeezing or discomfort
  • Pain that travels down one or both arms
  • Jaw pain
  • Nausea
  • Fatigue
  • Anxiety
  • Back pain
  • Shortness of breath
  • Feeling of fullness
  • Mild chest symptoms (pressure, burning, aching, tightness) that    come and go

 

Heart attack signs in women:

Many women may never have chest pains before a heart attack. Additionally, women often experience physical symptoms for as a long as a month before a heart attack.

 

The most common symptoms women experience before a heart attack include:

  • Unusual fatigue
  • Sleep disturbance
  • Shortness of breath
  • Indigestion 

During an actual heart attack, common symptoms in women include:

  • Shortness of breath
  • Weakness
  • Unusual fatigue
  • Cold sweat
  • Dizziness

 

If You Believe You Are Having a Heart Attack

  • Call 911. Tell the operator “I think I’m having a heart attack.”
  • Chew one adult strength aspirin or four baby aspirin. Keep supplies in areas where you spend time, as well as in your pocket or purse.
  • If at home, unlock your front door to enable paramedics to get to you quickly.

If possible, have a wallet card ready with your medical history and current medications.