Heart attacks, also known as myocardial infarctions, occur when a blood clot blocks all or most of the blood flow in an artery. This is a life-threatening event that can result from coronary artery disease or other medical conditions. Knowing the 10 warning signs of a heart attack can help you recognize when a heart attack is occurring so you can seek immediate medical treatment.
Shortness of Breath
Shortness of breath that does not go away after a few minutes is a common sign of a heart attack. This sign can occur with or without chest pain, so it is important to get shortness of breath evaluated by a physician to determine its cause.
Chest Pressure
One of the most common warning signs of a heart attack is chest pressure. This pressure occurs in the center of the chest and lasts for more than a few minutes. The chest pressure that signals a heart attack may also go away and then return in several minutes. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience crushing chest pressure.
Chest Pain
Crushing chest pain is also a symptom of a heart attack. This pain can be accompanied by sweating, nausea and vomiting, and may make it difficult to move or take a deep breath. Seek emergency medical treatment if chest pain occurs and it is not the result of an accident or known injury.
Nausea
Nausea can often accompany pain and pressure in the chest, and it is considered a warning sign of a heart attack. Nausea on its own is not usually cause for concern, but medical attention should be sought if it occurs with other heart attack warning signs.
Lightheadedness
The pain, pressure and shortness of breath that can occur during a heart attack may cause lighthededness. If you experience this warning sign along with other heart attack warning signs, do not drive to the doctor's office or hospital. Call an ambulance or ask a family member or friend for a ride. Driving while lightheaded can lead to serious accidents and injuries.
Upper Body Discomfort
Chest pain and pressure can spread to other parts of the upper body. Pain in the left arm or shoulder, abdomen and back can signal an impending heart attack. If this pain is not the result of another illness or injury that has already been diagnosed, seek medical attention to ensure that it is not caused by a heart attack.
Cold Sweat
Heart attacks can be signaled by cold sweats that often occur with chest pain and shortness of breath. If another illness that causes cold sweats has not been diagnosed, seek medical attention. An experienced medical professional can determine if it is caused by a less serious condition, or if it is the result of a heart attack.
Jaw Pain
Chest pain can radiate into the jaw during a heart attack. Because jaw pain can also be a symptom of some dental conditions, it is important to get professional medical treatment to distinguish between a minor dental condition and a serious heart attack.
Palpitations
Heart palpitations are defined as an abnormal awareness of the heartbeat. This should not be confused with awareness that is brought on by specifically concentrating on the heartbeat. Because palpitations can also be caused by caffeine, prescription drugs, alcohol, nicotine and some illegal drugs, it is important to seek medical attention to determine the exact cause.
Unexplained Weakness or Fatigue
Heart palpitations are defined as an abnormal awareness of the heartbeat. This should not be confused with awareness that is brought on by specifically concentrating on the heartbeat. Because palpitations can also be caused by caffeine, prescription drugs, alcohol, nicotine and some illegal drugs, it is important to seek medical attention to determine the exact cause.
