Here are 7 early warning signs of a heart attack that you shouldn’t ignore. Recognizing these symptoms early could save your life or someone else’s:
1. Chest Discomfort
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What it feels like: Pressure, squeezing, fullness, or pain in the center of the chest.
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Duration: May last more than a few minutes or go away and come back.
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Why it matters: This is the most common warning sign of a heart attack.
2. Shortness of Breath
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When it happens: Can occur with or without chest pain.
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Feels like: Difficulty breathing or feeling winded doing routine activities.
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Why it matters: It suggests your heart isn’t pumping efficiently.
3. Discomfort in Other Areas of the Upper Body
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Includes: Pain or discomfort in one or both arms, back, neck, jaw, or stomach.
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Why it matters: These areas can hurt even if the chest doesn’t, especially in women.
4. Cold Sweat
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Feels like: Breaking out in a sudden, unexplained cold sweat.
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Why it matters: A common sign of stress on the body from reduced blood flow.
5. Nausea or Lightheadedness
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Symptoms: Feeling sick to your stomach, dizzy, or like you might faint.
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Why it matters: These symptoms may signal a drop in blood pressure or poor heart function.
6. Fatigue
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When it happens: Feeling unusually tired with little effort or for no clear reason.
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Why it matters: Can indicate your heart is struggling to pump blood effectively.
7. Indigestion or Heartburn-like Sensation
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What it mimics: Acid reflux or an upset stomach.
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Why it matters: Especially in women, heart attacks can feel like gastrointestinal distress.
🚨 When to Act
If you or someone else experiences these symptoms — especially more than one at a time — call emergency services immediately. Don’t wait to see if the symptoms go away.