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What Are Less Common Warning Signs of a Heart Attack?

A heart attack occurs when the vessels that supply the heart with blood are blocked, preventing the flow of oxygen. The heart muscle starts to die, which can cause permanent damage. In order to react in time, it is important to become familiar with both the common and less common signs of a heart attack.

  1. Common Signs

    • Recognize common signs of a heart attack. These can include episodes of chest pain, shortness of breath, sweating, a sense of doom, sudden fainting, nausea, pain going from the chest or shoulder to the arm, or pressure and squeezing in the chest.

    Less Common Signs

    • Don't dismiss less common signs of a heart attack. These can include abdominal pain, heartburn, clammy skin, fatigue, and lightheadedness.

    Considerations

    • Realize that heart attacks do not always cause the same symptoms in everyone, or to the same degree. Some people have no symptoms, yet they may still have a heart attack. A heart attack can occur at any time, and although some have warning signs, for others it strikes suddenly.

    Treatment

    • Act immediately if you think you or someone else is having a heart attack. Many people wait too long to seek treatment. If you suspect that you are having a heart attack, call 9-1-1 or have someone drive you to a hospital immediately.

    Prevention

    • Take all of your medication as prescribed. Suddenly stopping medication can affect your heart function.

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