Health New England | Health Matters | Wellness Guide 2019

8 ∞ Health & Wellness Guide | 2019 Can you spot the signs of a heart attack? You’ll lower your chance of dying from one if you know the com- mon and un- common signs and symptoms, and what to do if they strike. Heart Attack Signs: Common and Less Common What You Can Do to Save a Life Common Heart Attack Signs The most common symptom of a heart attack is chest pain. But there are other common signs and symptoms you should know: • A feeling of pressure, squeezing or fullness in the chest, or a feeling of heartburn or indigestion. • Pain in your back, shoulders, arms, neck or jaw. • Feeling faint or light-headed with chest discomfort. • Shortness of breath at rest or with little activity. • Sweating, nausea or vomiting. Less Common Signs There are less common symptoms that also shouldn’t be ignored. Studies have found that a third of people who had a heart attack had no chest pain. Women, older adults and people with diabetes were more likely to fall into this group. If you or someone near you experiences any signs or symptoms of a heart attack, call 911—even if you’re not sure. It’s the fastest way to get im- mediate medical care. Keep these points in mind: • Always call 911 for chest pain. It’s a clear sign you need help. • Heart attacks can feel different. Your symptoms could vary from a friend’s or relative’s. And even if you’ve had a heart attack before, anoth- er one may feel different. • Some symptoms are more prevalent in women. Women are more likely to experience shortness of breath; nausea; vomiting; fatigue; or pain in the back, jaw or shoulders. • Signs may be subtle if you have diabetes. People with high blood sugar are more likely to report mild symptoms—or none at all. • Symptoms don’t always come on suddenly. Sometimes symptoms de- velop over hours, days or weeks. Or they may go away and come back. Someone has a heart attack every 43 seconds, according to the American Heart Association. Know how to spot one if it happens to you. Additional source: National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute HEART CARE