A heart attack is a life-threatening medical emergency that occurs when plaques or blood clots block blood flow to your heart, preventing it from receiving the oxygen it requires. A blockage produced by a heart attack can harm your heart. The longer the blockage is untreated, the more damage it causes to your heart. The impact of a blockage can be permanent if the blood flow is not restored quickly.

Although some heart attacks occur unexpectedly, many individuals have warning signs and symptoms hours, days, or weeks beforehand. However, not everyone who has a heart attack experiences the same symptoms or intensity of symptoms. Some have minor discomfort, while others experience very severe pain. There are also some people who don’t experience any symptoms at all.

You’re more likely to be having a heart attack if you have experienced these:

• Cardiac arrest
• Chest discomfort
• Neck, shoulder, and/or upper back pain
• Nausea or vomiting
• Unusual exhaustion
• Breathing problems
• Lightheadedness or dizziness
• Discomfort in your stomach which may feel like indigestion

A heart attack is a life-and-death medical condition. If you or someone you know is having symptoms that might indicate a heart attack, get medical help immediately.