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May 26, 2008, 9:05 am
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We hear about being careful about our hearts, but most people don't know what the heart attack warning signs are in the first place.

Here are some warning signs to take seriously. Take an aspirin and call 911!

Some heart attacks are sudden and intense where no one doubts what's happening. But most heart attacks start slowly, with mild pain or discomfort. Often people affected aren't sure what's wrong and wait too long before getting help. Here are signs that can mean a heart attack is happening:

Chest discomfort:

Most heart attacks involve discomfort in the center of the chest that lasts more than a few minutes, or that goes away and comes back. It can feel like uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain.    

Discomfort in other areas of the upper body:

Symptoms can include pain or discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw or stomach.  

Shortness of breath:

With or without chest discomfort.

Other signs may include breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea or lightheadedness.

Women are somewhat more likely than men to experience some of the other common symptoms, particularly shortness of breath, nausea/vomiting, and back or jaw pain.

Learn the signs, but remember: Even if you're not sure it's a heart attack, have it checked out and tell a doctor about your symptoms.

Calling 9-1-1 is almost always the fastest way to get lifesaving treatment. Emergency medical services (EMS) staff can begin treatment when they arrive — up to an hour sooner than if someone gets to the hospital by car. 

EMS staff are also trained to revive someone whose heart has stopped. Patients with chest pain who arrive by ambulance usually receive faster treatment at the hospital, too. It is best to call EMS for rapid transport to the emergency room.

If you can't access the emergency medical services (EMS), have someone drive you to the hospital right away. If you're the one having symptoms, don't drive yourself, unless you have absolutely no other option. 

Very good tips.

The thing to remember here is that the symptoms for women are very different than those that men experience. For those concerned, it would be wise to Google women's heart attack symptoms as they are frequently misdiagnosed or ignored till it's too late.

Good tips. Thanks for the info

My hubby was recently hospitalised with a stress attack, luckily he was out at work and a passerby managed to call an ambulance who confirmed he was not having a heart attack, much to everyones relief, as he is only 34.

His attack was also slow, and developed throughput the morning, just as you have outlined previously. He has since taken this as a warning and has slowed down and is appearing to be much calmer.