Warning Signs of Heart Attack

Since you’ve had a heart attack, your risk of having another is increased. Before you leave the hospital, ask your healthcare provider what symptoms to watch for. The list below may help. Keep in mind that the symptoms of a second heart attack may feel a lot like the symptoms of the first one. But they can also feel completely different. Also remember that women may have some symptoms that are different from men.

The faster you get help during a heart attack, the less damage to your heart. If you think you’re having another heart attack, call911right away. Signs of a heart attack may include:

• Pressure, squeezing, discomfort or pain in the chest

• Other mild pain or discomfort in the neck, jaw, shoulders, arms, or back

• Shortness of breath

• Dizziness or faintness

• Upset stomach (nausea) or vomiting

• Sweating

If you have diabetes, your symptoms may be very mild. Or you may not even have warning symptoms at all.

To learn more

For more information, visit these websites:

• American Heart Association at www.heart.org

• National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) at www.nhlbi.nih.gov 

• WomenHeart: The National Coalition for Women with Heart Disease at www.womenheart.org