Heart Attack Symptoms and Warning Signs

Coronary Heart Disease also known as CHD is the number one cause of mortality in the United States.

Therefore, knowing the warning signs of a heart attack is crucial. Many times people wait too long to get medical care from the onset of symptoms. Time is working against you as the muscle of your heart is being killed without sustenance.

Some warning signs that a heart attack or Myocardial infarction is occuring:

• Shortness of Breath or difficulty breathing with or without chest pain
• Chest Pain or Chest Discomfort – A majority of heart attack symptoms are with central chest discomfort that comes and goes. It can feel like squeezing, pressure, fullness or pain.
• Discomfort elsewhere – Symptoms can also include discomfort or pain in the neck, jaw, one or both arms, back, or stomach.
• Nausea, feeling lightheaded, or sweating.

Both men and women the most common symptom is chest discomfort or pain. Women are known to experience other symptoms as well such as shortness of breath, nausea, jaw pain or back pain.

Even if you are unsure you are experiencing a heart attack, as we love saying in medicine it is better to “err on the side of caution” call 911 immediately. It can save your life or the life of a loved one. Do not try to drive to the hospital by car to the hospital because EMS (Emergency Medical Services) can begin treatment much sooner. Further, going by ambulance the drive is quicker with no need to stop at red lights and you will get much quicker treatment at the hospital by going through ambulance.

If you are unable to access the emergency medical services (EMS) have somebody drive you to the hospital. Do not attempt to drive yourself to the hospital only if there absolutely no other means.

Here is an excellent 3 minute video of what causes a heart attack: