Common warning signs that often occur shortly before a heart attack (sometimes hours to days beforehand) include:
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Chest pain or pressure
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A heavy, squeezing, tight, burning, or crushing feeling
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May come and go, and may not always feel “severe”
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Often lasts more than a few minutes or returns
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Pain spreading to other areas
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Discomfort in the left arm, both arms, neck, jaw, back, or shoulders
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Sometimes only jaw or back pain, especially in women
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Shortness of breath & unusual fatigue
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Feeling winded with minimal activity or while resting
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Sudden exhaustion or weakness that feels “not normal”
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Other warning symptoms
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Cold sweats
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Nausea or vomiting
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Lightheadedness, dizziness, or faint feeling
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A sense of anxiety or “something is very wrong”
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⚠️ Call emergency services immediately if you or someone has chest pain or symptoms for more than a few minutes, or if they keep coming back. Do not drive yourself if possible. Early treatment saves heart muscle and lives.
