Signs and Symptoms
Chest symptoms (chest pain, pressure, heaviness or discomfort) are the most common signal of a heart attack for both men and women. But women, patients who are older and those with diabetes are more likely to have other symptoms.
These may include:
- Discomfort or tingling in one or both arms, back, shoulder, neck or jaw
- Shortness of breath
- Sudden dizziness
- Cold sweat
- Unusual tiredness
- Palpitations – feeling like your heart is racing, skipping a beat or flip-flopping
- Heartburn-like feeling
- Nausea or vomiting
- Fainting
Remember, sudden chest symptoms (pain, pressure or tightness) aren't the only signs of a heart attack. One study found that 1 in 3 people who had a heart attack had no chest pain; they were more likely to be older, female or have diabetes.
How a heart attack starts can vary too. Some hit all of a sudden and are severe. Others may start slowly and the symptoms may come and go, but never completely go away.
Trust your gut. If you think you or someone else might be having a heart attack, play it safe and take action.
When to Call 911
If you think you might be having a heart attack, don't delay. Call 911 right away. Delaying treatment can lead to permanent heart damage – even death. Every 30 minutes matters!
An ambulance is the safest way to get to the hospital. Paramedics are trained to assess a heart attack and can give life-saving treatment on the way (for example, doing an ECG or starting medications) and get you to the hospital that’s ready and best equipped to immediately treat you.
Women are more likely to delay seeking help for a number of reasons, including not wanting to bother others and being unsure about whether they are having a heart attack. It's always better to play it safe and call 911 right away and let the medical experts determine if you are having a heart attack.
- Last Edited 03/12/2025