What are the symptoms and signs of heart attack?
• Symptoms and signs of heart attack may include the following: • Chest pain or discomfort that is crushing, like a heavy weight; or squeezing, like a tight band around the chest; or an ache in the centre of the chest. The pain may radiate to the neck, jaw, shoulders, arms (especially the left arm), back, abdomen, face or teeth. The pain is persistent (longer than 15 minutes), and does not ease with rest. The pain is sometimes mistaken for indigestion. Note that in some cases, heart attacks are painless. • Profuse sweating • Difficulty breathing • Feeling dizzy or light-headed • Nausea • Pale, clammy skin • The pulse may be fast or irregular. • The person may suddenly collapse and lose consciousness. Get help immediately if: A person shows any signs of heart attack. Prompt treatment helps prevent further damage to the heart muscle and death.
