Are you at Risk ?

Heart Attack Warning Signs

Some heart attacks are sudden and intense — in the movies, no one doubts what's happening. But most heart attacks start slowly, with mild pain or discomfort.

Often people affected aren't sure what's wrong and wait too long before getting help. Here are signs that can mean a heart attack is happening: (Heart systems different in woman, see below)

• Chest discomfort. Most heart attacks involve discomfort in the center of the chest that lasts more than a few minutes, or that goes away and comes back. It can feel like uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain.   
• Discomfort in other areas of the upper body. Symptoms can include pain or discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw or stomach. 
• Shortness of breath with or without chest discomfort.  
• Other signs may include breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea or lightheadedness    

As with men, women's most common heart attack symptom is chest pain or discomfort. But women are somewhat more likely than men to experience some of the other common symptoms, particularly shortness of breath, nausea/vomiting, and back or jaw pain. (see below)

Learn the signs, but remember this: Time is not your friend, even if you're not sure it's a heart attack, have it checked out, tell your doctor about your symptoms or call KEMH at 236-2345.

Minutes matter! Fast action can save lives — maybe your own.

Don’t wait more than five minutes to call 9-1-1.

Calling 9-1-1 is almost always the fastest way to get lifesaving treatment. Emergency medical services (EMS) staff can begin treatment when they arrive — up to an hour sooner than if someone gets to the hospital by car. EMS staff are also trained to revive someone whose heart has stopped.

Patients with chest pain who arrive by ambulance usually receive faster treatment at the hospital, too. It is best to call EMS for rapid transport to the emergency room.

If you can't access the emergency medical services (EMS), have someone drive you to the hospital right away. If you're the one having symptoms, don't drive yourself, unless you have absolutely no other option.