Know the signs of a heart attack

Heart attack signs and symptoms include:

• Chest pain or 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.
• Pain or discomfort in the shoulder or arm
• Shortness of breath

Women often have different symptoms, which can include:

• Feeling much more tired than usual, for no clear reason
• Heartburn, nausea or a burning feeling that seems unrelated to food
• Lightheadedness or faintness

If you think you or someone near you is having a heart attack:

• Call 911 immediately.
• Do not drive yourself or the patient to the hospital. First responders can start life-saving steps in an ambulance while on the way to the Emergency Room.
• Have the patient stop all activities.
• Loosen clothing, such as ties and belts, that may restrict breathing.