Heart Attack Warning Signs
While some heart attacks may be sudden and intense - the “movie heart attack” - most start slowly, with mild pain or discomfort. Those affected often aren’t sure what’s wrong and wait too long before getting help. Here are signs that can mean a heart attack is happening:
- Chest discomfort – Most heart attacks involve discomfort in the center of the chest that lasts more than a few minutes, or that goes away and comes back. It can feel like uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain.
- Discomfort in other areas of the upper body – Symptoms can include pain or discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw or stomach.
- Shortness of breath – With or without chest discomfort.
- Other signs – These may include cold sweat, nausea or lightheadedness
As with men, the most common heart attack symptom for women is chest pain or discomfort. But women are somewhat more likely than men to experience some of the other common symptoms, particularly shortness of breath, nausea/vomiting, and back or jaw pain. Learn the signs, but remember this: Even if you’re not sure it’s a heart attack, have it checked out. Minutes matter! If you think you or a loved one is experiencing a heart attack, don’t wait more than five minutes to call 9-1-1.
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For Patients
For information or to schedule
an appointment, contact us at:
Office: 402.280.4464
For Physicians
To refer a patient or seek a consultation, call
877.775.0011
Our Physician
Dennis Esterbrooks, M.D.
Chief, Division of Cardiology
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