Common Symptoms of a Heart Attack
Chest Pain or Discomfort
The most common symptom of a heart attack is chest pain or discomfort. It may feel like pressure, fullness, squeezing, or pain in the center or left side of the chest. The pain may last for a few minutes or come and go.
Shortness of Breath
Shortness of breath is another common symptom of a heart attack. It may occur before or along with chest pain. You may feel like you can’t catch your breath or you are breathing faster than usual.
Nausea, Indigestion, or Heartburn
Some people may experience nausea, indigestion, or heartburn during a heart attack. These symptoms may be mistaken for stomach problems, but they can also occur during a heart attack.
Arm or Shoulder Pain
Pain or discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw, or stomach can also be a sign of a heart attack. This type of pain is more common in women than in men.
Less Common Symptoms of a Heart Attack
Fatigue
Unusual fatigue or weakness can be a sign of a heart attack, especially in women. You may feel tired even if you have not exerted yourself.
Dizziness or Lightheadedness
Dizziness or lightheadedness can be caused by a drop in blood pressure during a heart attack. It may occur with or without chest pain.
Sweating
Excessive sweating or cold, clammy skin can be a sign of a heart attack. This symptom is more common in women than in men.
Steps to Take If You Think You Are Having a Heart Attack
- Call 911 immediately.
- Chew and swallow aspirin, if recommended by your doctor.
- Stay calm and sit or lie down.
- Loosen any tight clothing.
- If you are alone, try to get to a public place before calling for help.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Heart Attack Treatment Options
| Treatment Option | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| Angioplasty and Stenting | Less invasive than surgery; faster recovery time | Risk of bleeding, infection, and damage to blood vessels; may not be effective for all types of heart attacks |
| Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery | Provides long-term relief; can be effective for all types of heart attacks | Invasive; longer recovery time; risk of bleeding, infection, and damage to blood vessels |
| Medications | Non-invasive; can be effective for some types of heart attacks; may prevent future heart attacks | May have side effects; may not be effective for all types of heart attacks |
FAQs
Q: What is a heart attack?
A: A heart attack occurs when the blood flow to a part of the heart is blocked, causing damage to the heart muscle.
Q: What are the warning signs of a heart attack?
A: The warning signs of a heart attack include chest pain or discomfort, shortness of breath, nausea, indigestion, heartburn, arm or shoulder pain, fatigue, dizziness, lightheadedness, and sweating.
Q: What should I do if I think I am having a heart attack?
A: Call 911 immediately, chew and swallow aspirin if recommended by your doctor, stay calm and sit or lie down, loosen any tight clothing, and try to get to a public place before calling for help if you are alone.
Q: What are the treatment options for a heart attack?
A: Treatment options for a heart attack include angioplasty and stenting, coronary artery bypass surgery, and medications.
