Symptoms of a Heart Attack
Am I having a heart attack?
Men and women often experience different symptoms… know the warning signs!
Men
Men often, but not always, experience the classic warning signs of a heart attack:
Chest discomfort with light-headedness, fainting, sweating, nausea or shortness of breath
Pain that spreads to the shoulders, neck and arms
Uncomfortable pressure, fullness, squeezing or pain in the center of the chest that goes away and comes back
Trigger: Men most often report physical exertion prior to heart attacks
Women
Women may experience the classic symptoms, but they are often milder. Women may also have other symptoms like:
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
Unexplained anxiety, weakness or fatigue
Nausea, vomiting or dizziness
Mild flu-like symptoms
Back or jaw pain
Trigger: Women most often report emotional stress prior to heart attacks
Every Second Counts!
If you or someone you know has any of these symptoms, immediately call 9.1.1. or get to an Emergency Department as quickly as possible. Our Summa doctors are ready to evaluate any patient complaining of chest pain within minutes of arrival, and to provide the right treatment. We are here for you 24 hours a day, every day.