9 Signs That Youre Having a Heart Attack

Chest Pain or Pressure This is the symptom that most people associate with a heart attack. It's characterized by severe pressure, fullness, squeezing, pain or discomfort in the center of the chest, lasting for more than a few minutes. The pain may also come and go.

Heart Attack Symptoms: Upper Body Pain

Whether or not you experience chest pain, you may experience pain in other areas of your upper body, including your shoulders, arms, back, neck, teeth or jaw.

Heart Attack Symptoms: Shortness of Breath

If shortness of breath lasts for more than a couple of seconds, it could be a sign of a heart attack. This symptom may occur with or without chest pain, and is more common in women than in men.

Heart Attack Symptoms: Cold Sweats

This symptom, too, may occur with or without chest pain. Also beware of cold, clammy skin or paleness.

Heart Attack Symptoms: Nausea

Women are more likely than men to experience symptoms of nausea or vomiting.

Fainting A temporary loss of consciousness -- or even a feeling of lightheadedness -- could be a symptom of a heart attack.

Heart Palpitations An increased or irregular heartbeat could mean that you're in danger.

Heart Attack Symptoms: Indigestion

Women in particular should pay attention to atypical, gas-like abdominal pains.

Fatigue or Vague Sense of Being Ill Unexplained anxiety and nervousness, weakness or overwhelming tiredness could be signs of a heart attack. Experts also say that a feeling of impending doom could be a warning from your body.