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Common Symptoms of a Heart Attack
A heart attack occurs when blood flow to the heart is blocked, usually by a blood clot or buildup of plaque in the arteries. The most common symptoms include:
Chest Pain or Discomfort
The classic sign of a heart attack is chest pain or pressure. This may feel like tightness, squeezing, fullness, or heaviness in the center or left side of the chest. The pain can last more than a few minutes, or it may go away and come back.
Shortness of Breath
Difficulty breathing or feeling like you cannot catch your breath is another major warning sign. This can happen with or without chest pain and may occur during rest or mild activity.
Pain in the Upper Body
Heart attack pain can spread beyond the chest. Many patients report pain or discomfort in the arms (especially the left arm), shoulders, back, neck, jaw, or even the stomach area.
Cold Sweats
Breaking out into a sudden cold sweat without any clear reason is a common symptom. If you’re sweating heavily and also feel chest discomfort, it’s a red flag.
Nausea or Lightheadedness
Some people experience nausea, vomiting, or dizziness during a heart attack. This is especially common among women, who may mistake it for stomach issues or food poisoning.
Heart Attack Symptoms in Women
While men and women share many of the same signs, women are more likely to have subtle symptoms. Instead of severe chest pain, women may feel:
- Unusual fatigue
- Sleep disturbances before the attack
- Pain in the neck, jaw, or back
- Indigestion-like discomfort
Because these symptoms can be mistaken for less serious problems, women sometimes delay seeking care, which increases risk.
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When to Seek Emergency Help
If you or someone around you experiences chest pain, shortness of breath, or any combination of the symptoms listed above, call 911 immediately. Quick medical intervention can save the heart muscle and increase the chances of recovery.
Remember, never try to “wait it out.” Even if the pain is mild, getting help fast can make the difference between life and death.
How to Reduce Your Risk of a Heart Attack
While not all heart attacks can be prevented, you can lower your risk by adopting a healthy lifestyle. Some effective steps include:
- Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
- Exercising regularly (at least 30 minutes a day, most days of the week)
- Managing stress through relaxation techniques
- Quitting smoking and limiting alcohol
- Keeping cholesterol, blood pressure, and blood sugar levels under control
Understanding the symptoms of a heart attack is one of the most important steps you can take for your health. Chest pain, shortness of breath, cold sweats, and unexplained fatigue should never be ignored. If you suspect a heart attack, call for emergency help right away.
