This graphic explains the warning signs of heart attack. Be alert to them in yourself and your loved ones. Learn more at heart.org/HeartAttack.
Heart attacks are a major health concern for older adults. Knowing what to watch for can save your life or the life of someone you care about. While a heart attack can happen suddenly and without warning, it can also start with small symptoms that are easy to miss. It's critical to recognize these signs and know what actions to take.
The most common sign of a heart attack is chest pain or discomfort. This often feels like a heavy weight, tightness, or squeezing in the middle of your chest. It might stay for a few minutes or come and go. Some people describe it as feeling like an elephant is sitting on their chest. However, not everyone experiences this type of chest pain. Sometimes, the symptoms are harder to notice, especially for older adults, women, or people with diabetes.
Other signs of a heart attack can include pain in other parts of the upper body. The discomfort might spread to your shoulders, arms, back, neck or jaw. You may also feel short of breath, as if you can't catch your breath, even when resting. Some people feel dizzy, lightheaded, or suddenly break out in a cold sweat. Others feel feeble or unusually tired, even if there's no apparent reason for it. Some may feel stomach pain, nausea, or think they just have indigestion, which can sometimes hide the fact that they're having a heart attack. Some women may feel it start as a strange tooth or jaw pain that won't go away.
Because the symptoms can vary so much, it's important to listen to your body. If something doesn't feel right, don't ignore it. You've lived with your body for your whole life: trust your instincts. Many people are unsure whether their symptoms are serious or they don't want to bother anyone, but acting quickly is critical. Waiting too long can cause lasting damage to the heart. If you think you might be having a heart attack, call 911 right away. Don't drive yourself to the hospital because emergency responders can start treatment on the way and save valuable time.
If you are with someone who shows signs of a heart attack, stay calm and help them sit or lie down in a comfortable position. Call 911 for them and ensure they remain as still as possible. If they have medicine like nitroglycerin from their doctor, help them take it. The most important thing to do while waiting for help is to remain calm. Just focus on breathing and communicating calmly. Knowing that help is there or on its way brings relief. Focus on that relief, and not on the fear.
If the person becomes unconscious and stops breathing, you may need to do CPR, which can save their life. Learning CPR in advance can make you more prepared for emergencies. If you don't know CPR, a 911 dispatcher will guide you through it.
Preventing a heart attack is just as important as recognizing the symptoms. Eating foods that are good for your heart, staying active, quitting smoking, and keeping conditions like high blood pressure or diabetes under control can reduce your risk. You should also see your doctor regularly and take your prescribed medications as directed.
Pay close attention to how your body feels, and don't ignore any signs that something might be wrong. Acting quickly when symptoms appear can save a life or protect your health for years to come. Share this information with others so they can be more aware, too. Awareness is an important step in fighting heart disease.
