The five signs of heart attack

Heart attack sign #1: Chest discomfort or pain

The most commonly reported heart attack symptom among men is chest discomfort, often described as a heaviness, tightness, or even a burning sensation. The feeling usually starts in the center of the chest and may or may not radiate to other areas of the body. It may go away and then come back, or it may be continuous.

If you're aware of someone experiencing any persistent chest discomfort, call 911 right away. Even if it's angina rather than a full-blown heart attack, he needs to see a doctor.

Heart attack sign #2: Discomfort in other parts of the body

Sometimes the pain of a heart attack doesn't occur in the chest. Instead, he or she might complain of discomfort or pain in one or both arms or back, neck, jaw, or even stomach. Women are more likely than men to experience pain in the jaw or back during an attack. It can be hard to tell if the discomfort is related to a heart attack or something else entirely, but if the pain came on suddenly or the person is experiencing another symptom as well, call 911.

Heart attack sign #3: Shortness of breath

It's common to be a little short of breath after exertion. But if someone is having difficulty breathing when at rest, it's cause for concern. Have him stop whatever he's doing and sit or lie down. If the shortness of breath persists for more than two minutes, call 911.

Heart attack sign #4: Nausea, sweating, pallor, or clamminess

These more subtle signs of heart attack can sometimes be mistaken for the flu. Women are more likely than men to report flu-like symptoms. If these symptoms come on suddenly or are accompanied by other signs of a heart attack, call 911.

Heart attack sign #5: A general feeling of extreme weakness or fatigue

As with nausea and sweating, weakness or fatigue can be symptoms of other conditions. But if the weakness or tiredness comes on suddenly -- especially if it's a woman experiencing it -- call 911.