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Heart Disease Signs and Symptoms
Heart Attack Signs
If the blood supply to the heart muscle is cut off, a heart attack
can result. Cells in the heart muscle do not receive enough oxygen and begin to
die. The more time that passes without treatment to restore blood flow, the
greater the damage to the heart. Having high blood pressure or high blood
cholesterol, smoking, and having had a previous heart attack, stroke, or
diabetes can increase a person's chances of having a heart attack. According to the American Heart Association, about 700,000 Americans
have an initial heart attack and another 500,000 have a recurrent heart
attack each year. According to a CDC report, almost half of the cardiac deaths in 1999
occurred before emergency services and hospital treatment could be
administered. It is important to recognize the signs of a heart attack and to act
immediately by calling 9–1–1. A person's chances of surviving a heart attack are
increased if emergency treatment is given to the victim as soon as possible.
Symptoms of a Heart Attack
The five major symptoms of a heart
attack are—
- Pain or discomfort in the jaw, neck, or back.
- Feeling weak, light-headed, or faint.
- Chest pain or discomfort.
- Pain or discomfort in arms or shoulder.
- Shortness of breath.
| If you think that you or someone you know is having a heart attack, you
should call 9–1–1 immediately. |
See our
fact sheet on the signs and symptoms of heart attack.
Page last reviewed: May 12, 2008
Page last modified: May 12, 2008
Content source: Division for Heart Disease and Stroke Prevention,
National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and
Health Promotion
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