Signs of a Heart Attack, also known as a myocardial infarction, occurs when blood flow to a part of the heart is blocked, leading to damage or death of heart muscle.

Recognizing the signs of a heart attack and seeking immediate medical attention can save lives. Understanding the symptoms, especially those that are less commonly known, is crucial for everyone.

Common Signs of a Heart Attack

1. Chest Pain or Discomfort:
   The most common and well-known symptom of a heart attack is chest pain, often described as a feeling of pressure, tightness, squeezing, or fullness in the center of the chest. This pain may last for several minutes or come and go. While chest pain is the most recognized symptom, it’s important to note that not all heart attacks present with severe pain. In some cases, the discomfort may be mild or mistaken for indigestion.
2. Pain or Discomfort in Other Areas of the Upper Body:
   Heart attack pain is not always confined to the chest. It can radiate to other parts of the upper body, including the arms (most commonly the left arm), back, neck, jaw, or stomach. Some individuals experience pain in these areas without any accompanying chest pain in the right side or left side, which can make recognizing a heart attack more challenging.
3. Shortness of Breath:
   Shortness of breath is another common symptom, especially when it occurs suddenly and without any obvious cause. It can happen with or without chest discomfort and may feel like you can’t catch your breath or like you’ve just finished running a race. Shortness of breath may occur during physical activity or even while at rest.
4. Cold Sweat:
   Breaking out in a cold sweat is a classic sign of a heart attack. This type of sweating is usually not related to physical exertion and can come on suddenly. It may be accompanied by a feeling of clamminess or light-headedness.
5. Nausea or Vomiting:
   Nausea, indigestion, heartburn, or stomach pain can be symptoms of a heart attack, especially in women. These symptoms are often mistaken for less serious conditions, such as gastrointestinal issues. However, if they occur suddenly or with other heart attack symptoms, they should not be ignored.
6. Light-headedness or Dizziness:
   Feeling light-headed or dizzy can be a sign of a heart attack, particularly when accompanied by other symptoms like chest pain or shortness of breath. Some individuals may faint or feel like they are going to faint.
7. Fatigue:
   Unusual or unexplained fatigue, especially in women, can be a sign of a heart attack. This fatigue may persist for days or even weeks before the heart attack occurs. It’s often dismissed as a normal part of aging or stress, but it’s important to recognize it as a potential warning sign.

Atypical Symptoms in Women

Women are more likely than men to experience atypical heart attack symptoms, which can include:

• Unexplained anxiety or a feeling of impending doom
• Pain in the lower chest or upper abdomen
• Extreme fatigue, even with minimal activity
• Nausea or vomiting without chest pain

These symptoms are often subtler and can be mistaken for other conditions such as gas pain, leading to delays in seeking treatment. Awareness of these differences is essential for early diagnosis and treatment.

What to Do if You Suspect a Heart Attack

If you or someone else experiences symptoms of a heart attack, it’s crucial to act quickly:

1. Call Emergency Services: Dial emergency services immediately. Do not drive yourself to the hospital unless there is no other option.
2. Chew Aspirin: If available, chew a regular-strength aspirin (unless allergic) while waiting for emergency help. Aspirin can help reduce blood clotting.
3. Stay Calm: Try to remain calm and seated until help arrives. Avoid any physical activity that could strain your heart further.