A heart attack is a medical emergency. Knowing the warning signs and acting quickly can save a life — maybe even your own. Even if you’re not sure it’s a heart attack, get help right away — call 911.
Recognize the Common Warning Signs
Heart attack symptoms can vary from person to person and may start suddenly or gradually, with mild pain or discomfort that comes and goes. Common warning signs include:
- Chest Discomfort: Most heart attacks involve discomfort in the center of the chest. This may feel like pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain that lasts more than a few minutes or goes away and comes back.
- Discomfort in Other Upper Body Areas
- Symptoms can spread beyond the chest to:
- One or both arms
- Back
- Neck
- Jaw
- Stomach
- These sensations can feel like pain, pressure, or a heavy ache.
- Symptoms can spread beyond the chest to:
- Shortness of Breath: This can occur with chest discomfort — or even before chest symptoms begin.
- Other Possible Signs
- Breaking out in a cold sweat
- Feeling nauseated or lightheaded
- Unusual or unexplained fatigue
- If these symptoms appear together with chest discomfort or shortness of breath, don’t wait — call 911 immediately.
Symptoms Can Differ in Women
While chest pain is the most common symptom in both men and women, women may experience additional or subtler signs, such as:
- Shortness of breath
- Nausea or vomiting
- Pain in the back, neck, jaw or shoulders
- Unusual fatigue
Sometimes these signs may be mistaken for less serious conditions — but every minute counts.
When to Call for Emergency Help
If you or someone near you exhibits any of the warning signs above, even if symptoms come and go, call 911 immediately. It’s the fastest way to receive lifesaving care and begin treatment.
Learn more at heart.org/heartattack