Signs of a Heart Attack
Education and Advocacy His palms are sweaty, knees weak, arms are heavy - could it be a heart attack? Time save lives with heart attacks, learn the symptoms and know when to call 9-1-1.
Thousands of Canadians die from heart attacks each year, but if you can recognize the signs and act quickly, you could save a life. If you or a loved one experience any of these signs, call 9-1-1 or your local emergency number immediately.
Signs can vary between men and women
According to a study published in Circulation, early heart attack signs were missed in 78% of women in the study group — even though these signs occurred repeatedly over a period of weeks or months.
Listen to your body
Although the most common heart attack sign is chest pain or discomfort, women can experience a heart attack without chest pressure. Instead, they may experience shortness of breath, pressure or pain in the lower chest or upper abdomen, dizziness, lightheadedness or fainting, upper back pressure or extreme fatigue.
