Not everyone experiences the same symptoms or severity. If you are having a heart attack (myocardial infarction), you may experience no signs or symptoms. Others have mild symptoms and some have more severe pain. Additionally, symptoms can differ among men and women. If left untreated, a heart attack can lead to cardiac arrest, a life-threatening condition where the heart suddenly stops beating.
Some common heart attack warning signs include:
Additional heart attack symptoms can include unusual tiredness or vomiting. If you are at a higher risk of heart disease, understanding these symptoms is critical for early intervention. Learn more about heart attack risk factors.
Many heart attacks are caused by coronary artery disease. This occurs when the coronary arteries become narrowed or blocked due to plaque buildup, restricting blood flow to the heart muscle. Recognizing symptoms and seeking immediate medical attention is essential to reduce damage to the heart.
For men, heart attacks often begin with a sudden rupture in a coronary artery, leading to a blood clot. Both men and women may experience chest pain or discomfort, often described as pressure that feels like an elephant sitting on the chest.
Heart attacks in women can be more subtle and harder to recognize. Women are more likely to experience "silent" symptoms, such as indigestion, shortness of breath or nausea, often dismissing them as less serious. Some women report upper back pressure that feels like squeezing or a rope being tied around them. Lightheadedness or fainting can also be warning signs. Read more about silent heart disease.
If you experience symptoms of a heart attack, the emergency team at Banner Health will quickly assess your heart health to guide immediate treatment. Early diagnosis is key to minimizing damage to the heart muscle and reducing the risk of cardiac arrest.
An electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) records the electrical activity of your heart. It helps detect damage to the heart muscle and monitors heart rate and rhythm.
An echocardiography is an imaging test that can be used during and after a heart attack. This test determines how the heart is pumping and what areas are not pumping normally. It can also tell if any structures of the heart have been injured after a heart attack.
Blood tests measure cardiac enzymes and proteins, such as troponins, released into the bloodstream after heart muscle damage. These tests help your doctor determine the size and timing of the heart attack.
Cardiac catheterization, or cardiac cath, may be used in the early hours of a heart attack if medications are not effective. It helps doctors view the blocked artery and assess blood flow, guiding decisions about the best treatment.
If you notice warning signs of a heart attack—such as chest pain or discomfort spreading to your arms, neck, jaw, or back—don’t wait. Call 911 or go to the nearest hospital right away. Find out what to expect during and after a heart attack.
After treatment, learning about heart attack recovery and ongoing heart care is essential for your long-term health. Quick action and understanding your treatment options can make a significant difference. Explore heart attack treatment options at Banner Health.
Protect your heart health — if you think you might be at risk, don’t wait. Schedule a heart health screening at Banner Health today.
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