If you or someone near you is having a heart attack, you may have only minutes to act. Heart attacks can strike suddenly and, in some cases, without obvious warning. Knowing the signs — and knowing what to do — can save a life.

“The most dangerous heart attack is the one people wait too long to respond to,” says Dr. Mitchell Elkind, MD, MS, neurologist and former president of the American Heart Association. “When people act quickly, outcomes improve dramatically.”

---

Common Heart Attack Warning Signs

Seek emergency medical help immediately if you or someone else experiences:

• Chest discomfort — pressure, squeezing, fullness, or pain in the center of the chest

• Pain spreading to the shoulders, arms, neck, jaw, or teeth

• Upper abdominal pain that does not resolve

• Shortness of breath, even at rest

• Dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting

• Cold sweats

• Nausea or vomiting

Symptoms may come and go. Pain can ease briefly and return. If symptoms persist or repeat, do not wait.

“People often delay calling 911 because symptoms feel mild or unclear,” explains Dr. Clyde Yancy, MD, cardiologist and AHA guideline author. “That delay is where the greatest risk lies.”

---

Heart Attacks Don’t Always Look the Same

Not all heart attacks involve crushing chest pain. Some people experience fatigue, shortness of breath, or vague discomfort. Others — especially women, older adults, and people with diabetes — may have minimal or atypical symptoms.

In many cases, warning signs appear hours, days, or weeks beforehand, often as chest discomfort during physical activity that improves with rest.

“The body often sends early signals,” says Dr. Jennifer Haythe, MD, cardiologist. “The challenge is recognizing them and taking them seriously.”

---

What Causes a Heart Attack?

Most heart attacks occur when a coronary artery becomes blocked, preventing oxygen-rich blood from reaching the heart muscle.

This blockage is usually caused by atherosclerosis, a gradual buildup of cholesterol and plaque inside artery walls. When plaque ruptures, a blood clot can form suddenly, cutting off circulation.

“Once blood flow stops, heart muscle begins to die within minutes,” notes Dr. Robert Eckel, MD, cardiovascular medicine specialist. “That’s why speed matters more than anything else.”

---

What to Do If You Suspect a Heart Attack

If you think someone may be having a heart attack:

Call 911 immediately.
Do not attempt to drive yourself or the person to the hospital.

While waiting for emergency responders:

• Have the person sit or lie down and rest

• If they are not allergic to aspirin and it is not medically contraindicated, give one aspirin to chew

• Stay with them and monitor breathing and responsiveness

“Chewing aspirin early can help limit clot formation,” explains Dr. Erin Michos, MD, preventive cardiologist. “But it never replaces calling 911.”

---

If the Person Becomes Unconscious

If the person collapses, becomes unresponsive, or stops breathing normally:

• Ensure 911 has been called

• Begin CPR immediately

• Continue CPR until an AED is available or emergency responders arrive

“CPR keeps the brain and heart alive until definitive care can be delivered,” says Dr. Comilla Sasson, MD, emergency medicine physician and resuscitation expert. “It’s one of the most powerful actions a bystander can take.”

---

The Bottom Line for 2026

Heart attacks remain one of the leading medical emergencies — but survival is strongly influenced by early action.

Recognize the signs.
Call 911 without hesitation.
Start CPR if needed.

“Prepared communities save lives,” says Dr. Benjamin Abella, MD, director of emergency cardiac care research. “Training turns fear into action.”

Being informed — and trained — still makes the difference between life and death.

Updated by Troy Bowman 2026