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February 9, 2012
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Heart Attack (cont.)

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Heart Attack Symptoms and Signs

Classic symptoms of a heart attack may include:

  • chest pain associated with shortness of breath,

  • profuse sweating, and

  • nausea.

The chest pain may be described as tightness, fullness, a pressure, or an ache.

Unfortunately, many people do not have these classic signs. Other signs and symptoms of heart attack may include:

This list is not complete, since many times people can experience a heart attack with minimal symptoms. In women and the elderly, heart attack symptoms can be atypical and sometimes so vague they are easily missed. The only complaint may be extreme weakness or fatigue.

Pain may also radiate from the chest to the neck, jaw, shoulder, or back and be associated with shortness of breath, nausea, and sweating.

Viewer Comments & Reviews

Heart attack - Symptoms at Onset of Disease

The eMedicineHealth physician editors ask:

The symptoms of heart attack can vary greatly from patient to patient. What were your symptoms at the onset of your disease?

Heart Attack - Treatment

The eMedicineHealth physician editors ask:

What treatment did you undergo after your heart attack?

Heart Health

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