Heart attack warning signs
Chest pain is only one of the possible signs of an impending heart attack or sudden cardiac arrest. If you notice one or more of the signs below in yourself or someone else, call 911 or your local emergency number right away.
-
Uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness, burning, tightness, or pain in the center of the chest
-
Pain, numbness, pinching, prickling, or other uncomfortable sensations in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw, or stomach
-
Shortness of breath
-
Sudden nausea or vomiting
-
Lightheadedness or dizziness
-
Unusual fatigue
-
Heat/flushing or a cold sweat
-
Sudden heaviness, weakness, or aching in one or both arms
Subscribe to Harvard Health Online for immediate access to health news and information from Harvard Medical School.
- Research health conditions
- Check your symptoms
- Prepare for a doctor's visit or test
- Find the best treatments and procedures for you
- Explore options for better nutrition and exercise