Heart disease is the No. 1 killer of both women and men, and it's important for everyone to know the warning signs of a heart attack. In 2010, an estimated 1.1 million Americans suffered a heart attack. About 460,000 of those heart attacks were fatal. About half of these deaths occurred within 1 hour of the start of symptoms and before the person reached the hospital. Although many people have the classic, chest-gripping pain often associated with a heart attack, there are a number of other symptoms. 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. Women often experience different warning signs than men. Here are some common warning signs:

 

CHEST DISCOMFORT.   Most heart attacks involve discomfort in the center of the chest that lasts for more than a few minutes. It may go away and come back. The discomfort can feel like uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness, or pain.

 

DISCOMFORT IN OTHER AREAS OF THE UPPER BODY can include pain or discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw, or stomach. You should be especially alert if these symptoms occur with heavier activity, like going up stairs. s

SHORTNESS OF BREATH often comes along with chest discomfort. But it also can occur before chest discomfort.

 

OTHER SYMPTOMS may include breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea, or light-headedness. Women

are more likely to experience these symptoms, as well as abdominal pain, weakness, and fatigue. Minutes matter, and often people wait too long before seeking help.

 

It is important to recognize the signs of a heart attack. If you think you are having a heart attack act immediately by calling 9–1–1. A person's chances of surviving a heart attack are increased if emergency treatment is given to the victim as soon as possible.