Heart Attack Symptoms

Symptoms and warning signs of heart attacks can vary from person to person. We have all seen in movies where a person suddenly clutches his heart and becomes weak. Certainly, some heart attacks follow that pattern. But many heart attacks come on more slowly, and may not cause severe in pain. Here are the most common symptoms of heart attack, though not all of these symptoms may be present:

1. Chest pain or discomfort, lasting more than a few minutes, or is intermittent. The feeling can be one of pressure, fullness, paid or squeezing.

2. Discomfort in the upper body. This could involve one or both arms, the neck, the back, the jaw or the stomach.

3. Shortness of breath.

4. Breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea or lightheadedness.

Men are more apt to feel discomfort in the chest, while women have a tendency to feel the other symptoms on the list.

What to do if you think you are having a heart attack. If you are not certain one way or the other, it's best to call 9-1-1 right away, and go to the emergency room to find out.

Take aspirin for a heart attack. Before you go to the emergency room, chew one buffered aspirin tablet (after calling 9-1-1). The aspirin will thin your bood and help unplug the blockage in the coronary artery, which may make the problem less severe, and could save your life. Chewing it before swallowing will make the process happen right away. "Taking aspirin also helps during a heart attack. In fact, people having a heart attack are often given an aspirin by emergency medical services," according to the American Heart Association.

When you are experiencing heart attack symptoms, every second counts. Recognizing the warning signs and acting quickly could add many years to your life.

Lower Your Cholesterol in 33 Days