What is Early Warning Signs of a Heart Attack?

Subtle symptoms that can appear hours or days before a heart attack, and what to do.

Heart & Circulation

Early Warning Signs of a Heart Attack

2025-08-14

Heart attacks don’t always start with sudden, crushing chest pain.
In many cases, subtle symptoms appear hours or even days before.

Chest discomfort — pressure, squeezing, fullness, or pain that comes and goes.
Pain in other areas — discomfort in the arms, back, neck, jaw, or stomach.
Shortness of breath — with or without chest discomfort.
Unusual fatigue — especially in women, this can precede other symptoms.
Nausea, lightheadedness, or cold sweats.

Call emergency services immediately — don’t wait to see if symptoms go away.
Chew aspirin (unless allergic or advised not to) while waiting for help.
Stay calm and still — moving around can worsen heart strain.

Early recognition saves lives — act fast if you or someone else may be having a heart attack.