المصدر 7 - A heart attack doesn’t always arrive with a dramatic chest-clutching scene like in the movies.

In reality, the symptoms can be subtle, slow-building, and easy to dismiss — which is what makes them so dangerous.

Recognizing the early signs of a heart attack could literally save your life (or someone else’s).

Heart disease remains the leading cause of death worldwide, but when treated early, survival rates improve dramatically.

Here are eight important warning signs your body might give you before or during a heart attack — and why you should never ignore them.

1. Chest Pain or Pressure — The Classic Warning

This is the most well-known sign — and still the most common.

What it feels like:

Not sharp stabbing pain, but a tightness, heaviness, squeezing, or burning sensation in the chest, usually in the center or slightly to the left.

Why it happens:

It’s caused by a blockage that prevents blood and oxygen from reaching heart muscles.

Science says:

According to the American Heart Association (AHA), chest pain (known as angina) is the primary indicator in over 70% of heart attacks.

What to do:

If the pain lasts more than a few minutes or comes and goes, seek emergency help immediately — every minute counts.

2. Shortness of Breath — Even Without Chest Pain

Feeling breathless during mild activity — or even while resting — can be a red flag.

Why it happens:

When your heart can’t pump efficiently, oxygen-rich blood doesn’t reach your lungs and muscles properly.

Warning sign:

If you find yourself winded by simple activities like climbing stairs or talking, and it’s new for you, it’s time to get checked.

Science says:

Shortness of breath is often more common in women during heart attacks than men, according to research in Circulation Journal.

3. Pain in Other Parts of the Body

Heart attack pain doesn’t always stay in the chest.

Where it may spread:

Shoulders

Neck or jaw

Upper back

Arms (especially the left)

Even the stomach or between shoulder blades

Why it happens:

The nerves that transmit pain from the heart can overlap with those in other areas — making the discomfort radiate.

Pro tip:

If you feel pressure or pain that moves from your chest to another area, call emergency services immediately.

4. Nausea, Indigestion, or Heartburn

Yes — a heart attack can feel like bad digestion.

Why it happens:

Reduced blood flow to the digestive system can cause symptoms similar to indigestion, especially in the upper abdomen.

Science says:

Women are more likely than men to experience nausea or vomiting during heart attacks, leading to misdiagnosis as a stomach issue.

Red flag:

If your “indigestion” feels unusual, lasts longer, or comes with sweating or dizziness — it’s not just food-related.

5. Cold Sweats and Dizziness

Sudden sweating — especially when you’re not exerting yourself — can be your body’s distress signal.

Why it happens:

Your nervous system goes into overdrive when blood flow drops, triggering sweating and lightheadedness.

Science says:

According to Harvard Health, cold sweats accompanied by chest discomfort are a strong predictor of an ongoing cardiac event.

Pro tip:

If you suddenly feel clammy, dizzy, and weak, sit down, stay calm, and call for help — don’t try to “walk it off.”

6. Fatigue or Weakness — Especially in Women

Extreme, unexplained fatigue that lasts for days can be one of the most overlooked signs of an impending heart attack.

Why it happens:

A struggling heart has to work harder to circulate oxygen, leaving you feeling drained.

Science says:

In women, persistent fatigue is one of the earliest signs, sometimes appearing weeks before a heart attack.

Warning:

If you find daily tasks suddenly exhausting — like making the bed or grocery shopping — listen to your body.

7. Irregular Heartbeat or Palpitations

Feeling like your heart is “skipping beats,” racing, or pounding out of rhythm? That’s not something to ignore.

Why it happens:

Irregular heartbeats can signal arrhythmia or stress on the heart due to poor circulation or blocked arteries.

Science says:

People who experience palpitations alongside other symptoms like dizziness or chest pressure are at a higher risk of cardiac arrest.

Pro tip:

If your heart rate feels erratic for more than a few minutes, especially with chest discomfort — call emergency services.

8. Swelling in Legs, Ankles, or Feet

Fluid retention (edema) in the lower body can be a silent sign of heart trouble.

Why it happens:

When your heart isn’t pumping efficiently, blood backs up in veins, causing swelling in the lower extremities.

Science says:

Chronic swelling, combined with shortness of breath, may indicate congestive heart failure — a precursor to cardiac arrest.

Pro tip:

If your shoes suddenly feel tight or you notice swelling at the end of the day, consult a doctor promptly.

Bonus: Anxiety or a Feeling of Impending Doom

Many survivors report feeling an overwhelming sense that “something is very wrong” before their heart attack.

This is your body’s internal alarm — take it seriously.

Never dismiss intuition when it comes to your health.

What to Do If You Suspect a Heart Attack

Call emergency services immediately — don’t drive yourself.

Chew an aspirin (if not allergic) — it helps thin the blood.

Stay calm and still — movement can strain the heart further.

Unlock doors so paramedics can reach you quickly.

Remember: Time is muscle — every minute that passes means more heart tissue at risk.