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Common Heart Attack Symptoms

Heart attacks can strike suddenly, but many times they produce symptoms hours, days, or even weeks in advance. Not everyone experiences the same symptoms. However, being familiar with the common warning signs of a heart attack could save your life.

Warning signs of a heart attack can include:

  • Pressure, tightness, pain, or a squeezing or aching sensation in your chest or arms that may also be felt in your neck, jaw, or back 
  • Feelings of fullness, nausea, indigestion, heartburn, or abdominal pain    
  • Shortness of breath    
  • Sweating (or cold sweat)    
  • Feelings of anxiety or impending sense of doom    
  • Fatigue    
  • Trouble sleeping    
  • Lightheadedness or dizziness.

During a suspected heart attack, act immediately:

  • Call 911 for emergency medical help.
  • Take nitroglycerin if prescribed.
  • Take aspirin if recommended by your doctor or emergency personnel

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