Some heart attacks are sudden and intense, but most of them start slowly, with mild pain or discomfort. Here are signs that can mean a heart attack is happening:

* Chest Discomfort – most heart attacks involve discomfort in the center of the chest that lasts more than a few minutes, or that goes away and comes back. It can feel like uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness, or pain.

*Discomfort In Other Areas Of The Upper Body – symptoms can include pain or discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw, or stomach.

*Shortness Of Breath – this feeling often comes along with chest discomfort, but it can occur without chest discomfort.

*Other Signs – may include breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea, or lightheadedness.

— if you or someone you’re with has one or more of these signs, call 911 immediately —

— get to the hospital immediately —

— if you’re the one having these symptoms, and can’t access the EMS (emergency medical

services), have someone drive you to the hospital right away. DON’T drive yourself , unless

you have absolutely no other option.

For more imformation, contact your nearest American Heart Association office or call

1(800)242-8721 or online at http://www.heart.org