The following information is to be used as a guide to and at the discretion of the end-user and should not replace a doctor’s opinion.

If you feel pressure or tightness in your chest, pain that goes from your chest into your jaw and/or left arm, or shortness of breath, you may be experiencing a heart attack.

The most common symptom for both men and women is in fact tightness or pain in your chest; however, women are somewhat more likely to experience other common symptoms, specifically shortness of breath, nausea or vomiting, and back or jaw pain.

Smoking, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, lack of exercise, stress and obesity are all risk factors for a heart attack.

Quit smoking; exercise and maintain a healthy diet and weight to help decrease the risk.

Also, talk to your doctor about whether aspirin could help reduce your personal risk of a heart attack.

Aspirin may help keep your blood from forming clots that could eventually block arteries in the heart, causing a heart attack.

Worried about this symptom? Try our symptom checker for guidance.