Don't Miss These Warnings of a Heart Attack

When it comes to heart attacks, every minute matters, so it’s important to know how to identify possible heart attack symptoms. Unfortunately, those symptoms aren’t always easily identified. Make sure you’re aware of these commonly overlooked signs.

Chest Discomfort
Severe chest pain that doesn’t go away after a few minutes requires a call to 911. Chest discomfort is the top sign of a heart attack, but some people—including many women—will never even experience it.

Stomach or Heartburn Symptoms
Women are more likely than men to experience what seems to be gastrointestinal or heartburn pain during a heart attack. Some people will even vomit, so if you’re at risk for heart problems, and have any other heart attack symptoms, see a doctor right away.

Arm Pain
A classic heart attack symptom is pain that starts at the chest and then radiates down the left side of the body. Sometimes patients think it’s just arm pain, but it turns out to be a symptom of a heart attack.

Dizziness or Lightheadedness
If you very suddenly feel unsteady and also have chest discomfort or shortness of breath, call a doctor right away. You might have a drop in blood pressure related to a heart attack.

Throat or Jaw Pain
This will usually be caused by a muscular issue, cold, or sinus problem. But if you have chest discomfort that spreads up into your throat or jaw, it could be a sign of a heart attack. Call 911 to get prompt medical attention.

Unsual Exhaustion
Feeling suddenly fatigued or winded with activities that never used to bother you mean you should make an appointment with your doctor right away. Extreme, unexplained exhaustion or weakness can be a symptom of a heart attack, particularly in women.

Snoring
Unusually loud snoring or gasping or choking sounds during sleep may indicate sleep apnea, a condition where you stop breathing for brief moments while you sleep. It puts extra stress on your heart. If this symptom sounds like you, talk to your doctor about a sleep study.

Sweating
If you suddenly break out in a cold sweat for no known reason and experience any other symptom of heart attack, call 911 to get to a hospital right away, but don’t try to drive yourself.