5 Warning Signs of a Heart Attack

About 805,000 people in the United States experience a heart attack each year. This means that a heart attack occurs every 40 seconds. 

Everyone has different hearts. The warning signs of a heart attack that a person can experience can drastically vary among different individuals. A heart attack happens when one or more coronary arteries become blocked. Coronary arteries bring oxygen rich blood to the heart. When blocked, they are unable to do this and cause damage to the heart. 

If you are able to recognize the warning signs of a heart attack, you can take action to prevent and treat it before it gets worse. Knowing the signs is very important as it could allow you to save a life (including your own). 

Here are five warning signs of a heart attack:

1. Chest Pain or Discomfort (also known as angina)

Having chest pain or discomfort can be a warning sign of a heart attack. The feeling might feel like uncomfortable aching, numbness, fullness, squeezing, or pressure in your chest. Sometimes, the feeling is described as an “elephant sitting on your chest”. It could come and go in waves and spread to the rest of your body, limbs, neck, jaw, or back. This is the most common warning sign. 

2. Nausea, Lightheadedness, Feeling Weak, or Faint

Feeling nausea, lightheadedness, weak, or faint could be that of many other conditions. It is important to take caution when you feel these symptoms though as they could be a warning sign of a heart attack. It is best to take action and to not wait to see a doctor as they could accurately diagnose you. Never try to diagnose yourself or wave it off as something that isn’t serious. It is better to be safe than sorry. 

3. Shortness of Breath

Shortness of breath can be caused by physical activities, high altitudes, or extreme temperatures. If you are experiencing shortness of breath with tightening in your chest, it could be a warning sign of a heart attack. Even if you don’t feel discomfort, it can still be a sign. If you experience unusual shortness of breath, seek medical help right away. Paying attention and seeking help could be a life changing decision. 

4. Pain In Other Parts of Body

Feeling pain in other parts of your body, like that of your arms, legs, back, neck, jaw, or above your belly button could be a warning sign of a heart attack. If you feel pain in any of these areas, seek medical help right away. The earlier you get help, the better. 

5. Sweating, Cold Sweat, or Sudden Chills

Regardless of the temperature, sweating or a cold sweat could be a warning sign of a heart attack This also includes sudden chills. 

Not all symptoms are the same. Sometimes, you could have multiple symptoms at once. Always do a checkup with your doctors consistently. Never ignore warning signs. Spotting warning signs could increase your chance of survival. Ignoring them could be fatal. 

Women are more likely than men to suffer from the non-chest pain symptoms. They are also more likely to feel fatigued or tired. 

If you or someone else is experiencing the warning signs of a heart attack, call Triple Zero (000) immediately.