Heart attack symptoms

Did you know that someone has a heart attack every 34 seconds, and a heart attack-related death occurs every 60 seconds? However, many people don’t know they are having a heart attack when it happens.

Some of the most common symptoms for men and women include:

• Chest pain or discomfort
• Upper body discomfort
• Shortness of breath

Men and women may also experience very different symptoms besides the classic chest pain.

Six common heart attack symptoms in women:

1. Chest pain/discomfort that feels like squeezing or fullness anywhere in the chest.
2. Pain in the arms, back, neck, or jaw. Pain can be gradual or appear suddenly that becomes more intense.
3. Stomach pain or abdominal pressure. Many women mistake stomach pain for the flu, heartburn, or an ulcer. However, ignoring this symptom could be deadly.
4. Shortness of breath or lightheadedness.
5. Breaking out in a cold, nervous sweat is a common symptom for women.
6. Unusual fatigue that lasts for several days.

While some women may experience the classic symptoms of a heart attack, many experience vague or silent symptoms. Women who don’t recognize their symptoms may delay or even forgo treatment. Even a small delay in treatment can be deadly.

Six common heart attack symptoms in men:

1. Chest discomfort that feels like squeezing, pressure, or pain.
2. Discomfort in one or both of the arms, back, neck, abdomen, or jaw.
3. “Heartburn,” fullness, or sense of indigestion.
4. Feeling lightheaded, dizzy, or faint
5. Breaking out in a cold sweat.
6. Shortness of breath.

Symptoms of a heart attack can vary from person to person. Symptoms may even be different from previous heart attacks. If you have one or more of these symptoms that last for more than five minutes and are unsure of the cause, seek medical attention immediately. Treatment works best if given within the hour of when symptoms begin. The sooner you receive treatment, the better your chances are for recovery. Don’t delay!