Heart Attack Warning Signs
Recognizing symptoms can save a life.

Heart Attack Warning Signs

The Society of Chest Pain Centers reports that 50% of sudden cardiac deaths occur outside of a hospital, suggesting that many people do not act on early warning signs. Knowing and recognizing heart attack warning signs can save a life. When it comes to your heart, every minute matters.


Heart attacks are not always sudden and intense. Many heart attacks start slowly with only mild pain or discomfort. Some people do not experience chest pain but instead have other signs. Signs of a heart attack include:


Chest discomfort

  • Uncomfortable pressure, heaviness
  • Squeezing, tightness
  • Discomfort lasts more than two minutes, may come and go

Discomfort in other areas of the upper body

  • One or both arms
  • BackNeck or jaw
  • Stomach or abdomen

Other signs (with or without chest discomfort)

  • Shortness of breath
  • Cold sweat
  • Nausea, vomiting
  • Light-headedness
  • Extreme weakness/fatigue

Symptoms in Women

Symptoms in Men

If you or someone you love is experiencing any sign or symptoms of a heart attack, call 9-1-1 immediately and go directly to the emergency room.

Emergency Room in Gulf Shores


South Baldwin Regional Medical Center
Freestanding Emergency Department

3590 Gulf Shores Pkwy
Gulf Shores, Alabama 36542


Get Directions to the ER


South Baldwin Regional
Medical Center

1613 N. McKenzie Street
Foley, AL 36535


Get Directions to the ER

Emergency Symptoms

Heart Attack

A heart attack can occur at any time & they are not always sudden & intense. Knowing & recognizing heart attack warning signs can save a life.

View Warning Signs

Severe Pain

If not due to an injury, most pain should be addressed with your doctor. However, some symptoms may require immediate medical attention.

View Emergent Symptoms

Abdominal Pain

The types, severity & causes of stomach pain range from mild to life-threatening. View our list of emergent symptoms & know when to go to the ER.

View Emergent Symptoms

Dizziness

There are many possible causes for the feelings of dizziness, weakness and confusion. View symptoms & know when to go to the ER.

View Emergent Symptoms

Appendicitis

Appendicitis occurs when the appendix becomes inflamed and is often extremely painful. View symptoms & know when to go to the ER.

View Emergent Symptoms

Chest Pain

While not always heart-related, some causes of chest pain, such as a heart attack, can be life threatening. View possible causes of chest pain and know when to go to the ER.

View Emergent Symptoms