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Heart Attack Warning Signs
A heart attack is a frightening event, and you probably don't want to think
about it. But, if you learn the signs of a heart attack and what steps to take,
you can save a lifemaybe your own.
What are the signs of a heart attack? Many people think a heart attack is
sudden and intense, like a "movie" heart attack, where a person
clutches his or her chest and falls over.
The truth is that many heart attacks start slowly, as a mild pain or
discomfort. If you feel such a symptom, you may not be sure what's wrong. Your
symptoms may even come and go. Even those who have had a heart attack may not
recognize their symptoms, because the next attack can have entirely different
ones.
Women may not think they're at risk of having a heart attackbut they
are. Learn more about women and heart attack.
It's vital that everyone learn the warning signs of a heart attack.
These are:
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Chest discomfort. Most heart
attacks involve discomfort in the center of the chest that lasts for more than
a few minutes, or goes away and comes back. The discomfort can feel like
uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness, or pain.
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Discomfort in other areas of the upper
body. Can include pain or discomfort in one or both arms, the back,
neck, jaw, or stomach.
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Shortness of breath. Often
comes along with chest discomfort. But it also can occur before chest
discomfort.
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Other symptoms. May include
breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea, or light-headedness.
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Learn the signsbut also remember: Even if you're not sure it's a heart
attack, you should still have it checked out. Fast action can save lives-maybe
your own.
After you learn more about heart attack, try a brief
quiz to see if you know what to do if you or
someone else has warning signs.
Heart attack survivors talk about their experiences:
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