Know the Signs

Light-headedness, fatigue and an irregular heartbeat may be signs of cardiovascular illness. If you experience these, schedule a checkup with your primary care provider. The much more serious signs of a heart attack include the following: chest pain or discomfort; pain or discomfort in the jaw, neck, back, arms, shoulders or stomach; feeling weak; and shortness of breath. For women, especially, chest pain isn’t always present, so be aware that the following symptoms may occur with or without chest discomfort: nausea (feeling sick to your stomach) or vomiting or breaking out in a cold sweat. Call 911 immediately, if you suspect you or someone you know is having a heart attack.