Is It a Heart Attack?

A heart attack is a life-threatening emergency that occurs when blood flow to the heart is reduced or interrupted. If you experience chest pain or pain and discomfort in one or both arms or your jaw, neck, back or stomach, you may be having a heart attack. Learn more about the symptoms and getting fast care that can save your life.

If you experience any combination of the following symptoms, get immediate medical attention. Heart attack isn’t the only medical condition that can cause these symptoms, but it’s better to be safe than sorry:

• Uncomfortable pressure, fullness, squeezing, or pain in the center of the chest lasting longer than a few minutes – or that goes away and comes back
• Pain that spreads to the shoulders, neck, back, and arms
• Lightheadedness/fainting
• Shortness of breath
• Extreme anxiety
• Exhaustion
• Breaking out in a cold sweat

Women’s Heart Attack Symptoms Can be Different

The following symptoms are more common in women:

• Shortness of breath
• Nausea/vomiting
• Unusual pain in the back or the jaw

Get Help Fast

If you suspect someone is having a heart attack:

• Call 911 or your local number for emergencies. Don’t hang up until you’re told to.
• Make sure the door is unlocked so paramedics can enter.
• Make sure you have a phone with you.
• You may be directed to take aspirin, but don’t do so if a physician has previously advised you not to.
• Don’t let someone who is having symptoms drive to the hospital. Call an ambulance.