Hospital Services

Heart Attack Symptoms

Not everyone experiences the classic symptoms of a heart attack. Some may not feel any discomfort at all. Women may feel a burning sensation in their upper abdomen and may experience lightheadedness, an upset stomach and sweating. Elderly and diabetic patients may have shortness of breath, weakness or confusion. Because they may not feel typical chest pain, many people may ignore symptoms that indicate they are having a heart attack.

Use the list below as a reminder of the signs of a heart attack and call 911 or go to your nearest emergency department if you see someone experiencing these symptoms:

• Pressure, fullness, tightness or pain in chest lasting more than 5 minutes
• Pain may be in the jaw, neck or arms
• Abdominal or back discomfort
• Constant indigestion, nausea or vomiting
• Lightheadedness, dizziness, fainting or sweating
• New or unexplained shortness of breath
• New or unexplained anxiety, weakness or fatigue
• Palpitations or heart "pounding" or "racing"
• Cold sweat, pale skin