Warning Signs

Being able to recognize the warning signs of heart attack and stroke could save your life. Every minute counts during the onset of a heart attack or stroke—the faster you receive medical treatment, more likely you are to survive and the better your chances of a more complete recovery.

HEART ATTACK

Women often experience the same symptoms as men do, but women and men don't respond to a heart attack in the same ways. Women are less likely to believe they're having a heart attack, and they are more likely to put off seeking treatment.

The five warning signs of a heart attack are one or more of:

• Chest pain or discomfort
• Pain in the arm, neck, jaw, shoulder or back
• Nausea, indigestion or vomiting
• Sweating and/or cool, clammy skin
• Difficulty breathing
• Fear or anxiety
  

Sudden discomfort or pain in these areas that does NOT go away with rest can indicate a heart attack. It may feel like burning, squeezing, heaviness, tightness or pressure. Although symptoms are generally the same for men and women, women can sometimes experience symptoms that are less definite, such as chest discomfort rather than pain.

For women, chest pain may not be the first sign of heart trouble. Women have reported experiencing unusual tiredness, trouble sleeping, problems breathing, indigestion, and anxiety up to a month or so before the heart attack.

STROKE

The five warning signs of a stroke are

SUDDEN:

• Weakness or numbness
• Loss of muscle strength in face, arm or leg
  
• Trouble speaking
• Vision problems
• Severe headache
• Dizziness

If you experience ANY of the warning signs of heart attack or stroke, seek medical attention immediately! Call 9-1-1 or the emergency response number in your area. The faster you act, the better your chances of survival and recovery.