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1. Shard Calculation

Query:

Response:

Calculated Shard: 188 (from laksa125)

2. Crawled Status Check

Query:

curl -X POST \
  'http://laksa188.int.ahrefs:8124/' \
  -H 'Content-Type: text/plain' \
  -H 'X-ClickHouse-Database: crawler3' \
  -H 'Authorization: Basic YXBpOg==' \
  -d 'SELECT getAhrefsURLFromUnparsed(src_unparsed) AS found_url, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(download_stamp), 0) AS crawl_time, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(props_url_first_seen), 0) AS first_indexed_time, download_http_code AS http_code, src_unparsed AS src_unparsed, src_root_hash AS src_root_hash, history_drop_reason AS history_drop_reason, meta_title AS meta_title, meta_descriptions AS meta_descriptions, attrs_boilerpipe_text AS attrs_boilerpipe_text, attrs_markdown AS attrs_markdown, attrs_readable_markdown AS attrs_readable_markdown, meta_canonical AS meta_canonical FROM crawler3.page_info_local FINAL PREWHERE (src_root_hash, src_unparsed) IN ((getAhrefsRootHashFromUnparsed(getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://blog.mercy.com/signs-before-a-heart-attack/\')), getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://blog.mercy.com/signs-before-a-heart-attack/\'))) FORMAT JSONEachRow'

Response:

{"found_url":"https:\/\/blog.mercy.com\/signs-before-a-heart-attack\/","crawl_time":1770019218,"first_indexed_time":1739977904,"http_code":200,"src_unparsed":"com,mercy!blog,\/signs-before-a-heart-attack\/ s443","src_root_hash":"1033227715007263388","history_drop_reason":null,"meta_title":"Signs Before a Heart Attack: What to Look For - Mercy Health Blog","meta_descriptions":["Recognizing early warning signs before a heart attack can help you get medical attention quicker, making a difference in saving your life."],"attrs_boilerpipe_text":"When it comes to recognizing the signs of a heart attack, time is a really important factor. Heart attacks often occur suddenly and can be life-threatening events. That’s why recognizing early warning signs before a heart attack can make a critical difference in saving your life.\nIt’s the early recognition of heart attack symptoms that can play a critical role in preventing severe damage to the heart muscle and improve the chances of recovery. Understanding what to look for can help you identify when it’s time to call 911. \nUnderstanding heart disease and risk factors\nIt may be common knowledge at this point, but it’s worth restating:\nHeart disease\nis the leading cause of death in the United States. \nThere are several risk factors that can increase the likelihood of having a\nheart attack\n: \nHigh blood pressure:\nMaking your heart work harder 24 hours a day, seven days a week, is never good and can cause a lot of issues with its ability to function properly.\nHigh cholesterol:\nHigh levels of cholesterol cause plaque to build up in and around your arteries, which blocks blood flow to your heart.\nDiabetes:\nPeople with diabetes are twice as likely to develop heart disease as people without diabetes.\nSmoking:\nSmoking causes a lot of issues in your body, but regarding heart health,\nsmoking\nleads to damaged blood vessels.\nObesity:\nExcess weight and lack of exercise is a leading cause of heart disease.\nSedentary lifestyle:\nA lifestyle that doesn’t include much activity can lead to weight gain and strain on your heart, leading to heart disease.\nA family history of heart disease:\nIf you have a first-degree relative who has had a heart attack, you’re likely at a higher risk of having one yourself.\nBlood clotting\nissues and\nnarrowed blood vessels\ncan also prevent proper blood flow to the heart, increasing the risk of a heart attack.\nUnderstanding that heart attacks occur when a portion of the heart muscle suddenly loses its blood supply is important. A blood clot or the narrowing of the coronary arteries could limit blood flow to the heart muscle. When this blockage occurs, the tissue in the heart begins to die and this can cause permanent damage.\nSymptoms and warning signs before a heart attack\nRecognizing the early heart attack warning signs is key to saving lives. The symptoms can appear gradually or suddenly and can vary widely from person to person. Both men and women experience heart attacks, but women often report different symptoms than men, making it harder to diagnose in some cases.\nChest discomfort is the most well-known and common\nsymptom of a heart attack\n. People usually describe the discomfort as uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain, and they often feel it on the left side of the chest. It’s important to understand that chest pain may radiate to other parts of the body, including the jaw, neck, shoulders, arms or even the back. The pain may come and go or intensify over time.\nFor some, the chest discomfort is not as severe and may be mistaken for indigestion, an anxiety attack or\nheartburn\n. If pain or discomfort lasts longer than a few minutes or recurs, you should treat it as a potential heart attack. If you are unsure whether it’s a heart attack, it’s always better to call 911 for emergency medical assistance.\nUncommon symptoms in women\nWomen may experience heart attacks differently than men. While men typically experience severe chest pain,\nheart attack symptoms in women\nmay be more subtle and less obvious. \nShortness of breath is one of the common warning signs before a heart attack for women. Unusual fatigue, nausea, lightheadedness or even anxiety can also accompany it. In fact, many women report feeling uncomfortable pressure or pain in the chest that is more diffuse, radiating to the neck, jaw, back and arms.\nPeople often overlook or dismiss women experiencing symptoms of a heart attack. For instance, many women report feelings of indigestion, stomach discomfort or abdominal pain. These signs can be mistaken for something less serious, leading to delays in seeking medical attention.\nAs a result, women may be at greater risk of having a delayed diagnosis and treatment for a heart attack.\nRecognizing early warning signs before a heart attack occurs\nThere are several early warning signs of a heart attack that should not be ignored:\nChest discomfort:\nThis is the classic sign of a heart attack.\nChest pain\nmay feel like pressure, squeezing, or fullness in the center of the chest. It can last for a few minutes or go away and return later.\nPain in other parts of the body:\nPain or discomfort may radiate to the neck, jaw, back, shoulders, arms or even the stomach. These areas often suffer when the heart muscle doesn’t receive enough blood and oxygen.\nShortness of breath:\nDifficulty breathing or feeling winded without exertion can be an early sign that the heart is struggling. Shortness of breath may occur alongside chest pain or may be the only symptom.\nLightheadedness or dizziness:\nWhen heart issues reduce blood flow to the brain, a feeling of faintness or loss of balance can occur. You should not take this symptom lightly.\nCold sweat:\nBreaking out into a cold sweat, especially if you feel anxious or out of breath, is a common sign before a heart attack occurs.\nNausea or vomiting:\nSome people may experience nausea or vomiting along with chest discomfort. This is especially common in women and may be mistaken for other conditions.\nWhen to call 911\nNoticing early signs before a heart attack occurs is important, but sometimes it’s not possible. If you or someone around you experiences any of the heart attack symptoms mentioned, it’s crucial to act quickly. Call 911 and go to the\nnearest emergency department\n. Early treatment can help minimize damage to the heart muscle and increase the chances of a full recovery.\nLearn about the\nheart and vascular care\nwe offer at Mercy Health.","attrs_markdown":"[![](https:\/\/blog.mercy.com\/wp-content\/themes\/mercy\/assets\/images\/mercyknot.png)](https:\/\/blog.mercy.com\/)\n\n- - [Heart and Vascular](https:\/\/blog.mercy.com\/category\/heart-health-and-vascular-health\/)\n  - [Sports \/ Orthopedic](https:\/\/blog.mercy.com\/category\/sports-medicine-orthopedics\/)\n  - [Healthy Living](https:\/\/blog.mercy.com\/category\/healthy-living\/)\n  - [Stories](https:\/\/blog.mercy.com\/category\/mercy-stories\/)\n  - [News](https:\/\/blog.mercy.com\/category\/health-news\/)\n  \n  ***\n  - [Mercy Health Home](https:\/\/www.mercy.com\/)\n  - [Find a Doctor](https:\/\/www.mercy.com\/find-a-doctor)\n  ***\n\n[![Mercy Health](https:\/\/blog.mercy.com\/wp-content\/themes\/mercy\/assets\/images\/mercy-logo.svg)](https:\/\/blog.mercy.com\/)\n\n- [Mercy Health Home](https:\/\/www.mercy.com\/)\n- [Find a Doctor](https:\/\/www.mercy.com\/find-a-doctor)\n\n[![Mercy Health](https:\/\/blog.mercy.com\/wp-content\/themes\/mercy\/assets\/images\/mercy-logo.svg)](https:\/\/blog.mercy.com\/)\n\n- [Heart and Vascular](https:\/\/blog.mercy.com\/category\/heart-health-and-vascular-health\/)\n- [Sports \/ Orthopedic](https:\/\/blog.mercy.com\/category\/sports-medicine-orthopedics\/)\n- [Healthy Living](https:\/\/blog.mercy.com\/category\/healthy-living\/)\n- [Stories](https:\/\/blog.mercy.com\/category\/mercy-stories\/)\n- [News](https:\/\/blog.mercy.com\/category\/health-news\/)\n\n![signs before a heart attack](https:\/\/blog.mercy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Signs-Before-a-Heart-Attack-Blog-Header-1200x610.jpg)\n\n[Heart and Vascular](https:\/\/blog.mercy.com\/category\/heart-health-and-vascular-health\/%20)\n\n# Signs Before a Heart Attack: What to Look For\nFeb 19 2025\n\nShare\n***\nWhen it comes to recognizing the signs of a heart attack, time is a really important factor. Heart attacks often occur suddenly and can be life-threatening events. That’s why recognizing early warning signs before a heart attack can make a critical difference in saving your life.\n\nIt’s the early recognition of heart attack symptoms that can play a critical role in preventing severe damage to the heart muscle and improve the chances of recovery. Understanding what to look for can help you identify when it’s time to call 911.\n\n## **Understanding heart disease and risk factors**\nIt may be common knowledge at this point, but it’s worth restating: [Heart disease](https:\/\/www.mercy.com\/health-care-services\/heart-vascular\/conditions\/heart-disease) is the leading cause of death in the United States.\n\nThere are several risk factors that can increase the likelihood of having a [heart attack](https:\/\/www.mercy.com\/health-care-services\/heart-vascular\/conditions\/heart-attack):\n\n- **High blood pressure:** Making your heart work harder 24 hours a day, seven days a week, is never good and can cause a lot of issues with its ability to function properly.\n- **High cholesterol:** High levels of cholesterol cause plaque to build up in and around your arteries, which blocks blood flow to your heart.\n- **Diabetes:** People with diabetes are twice as likely to develop heart disease as people without diabetes.\n- **Smoking:** Smoking causes a lot of issues in your body, but regarding heart health, [smoking](https:\/\/blog.mercy.com\/quitting-smoking-benefits-heart\/) leads to damaged blood vessels.\n- **Obesity:** Excess weight and lack of exercise is a leading cause of heart disease.\n- **Sedentary lifestyle:** A lifestyle that doesn’t include much activity can lead to weight gain and strain on your heart, leading to heart disease.\n- **A family history of heart disease:** If you have a first-degree relative who has had a heart attack, you’re likely at a higher risk of having one yourself.\n- **Blood clotting** issues and [narrowed blood vessels](https:\/\/blog.mercy.com\/peripheral-artery-disease\/) can also prevent proper blood flow to the heart, increasing the risk of a heart attack.\n\nUnderstanding that heart attacks occur when a portion of the heart muscle suddenly loses its blood supply is important. A blood clot or the narrowing of the coronary arteries could limit blood flow to the heart muscle. When this blockage occurs, the tissue in the heart begins to die and this can cause permanent damage.\n\n## **Symptoms and warning signs before a heart attack**\nRecognizing the early heart attack warning signs is key to saving lives. The symptoms can appear gradually or suddenly and can vary widely from person to person. Both men and women experience heart attacks, but women often report different symptoms than men, making it harder to diagnose in some cases.\n\nChest discomfort is the most well-known and common [symptom of a heart attack](https:\/\/blog.mercy.com\/symptoms-of-a-heart-attack\/). People usually describe the discomfort as uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain, and they often feel it on the left side of the chest. It’s important to understand that chest pain may radiate to other parts of the body, including the jaw, neck, shoulders, arms or even the back. The pain may come and go or intensify over time.\n\nFor some, the chest discomfort is not as severe and may be mistaken for indigestion, an anxiety attack or [heartburn](https:\/\/blog.mercy.com\/heartburn-vs-heart-attack\/). If pain or discomfort lasts longer than a few minutes or recurs, you should treat it as a potential heart attack. If you are unsure whether it’s a heart attack, it’s always better to call 911 for emergency medical assistance.\n\n### **Uncommon symptoms in women**\nWomen may experience heart attacks differently than men. While men typically experience severe chest pain, [heart attack symptoms in women](https:\/\/blog.mercy.com\/women-vs-men-heart-health\/) may be more subtle and less obvious.\n\nShortness of breath is one of the common warning signs before a heart attack for women. Unusual fatigue, nausea, lightheadedness or even anxiety can also accompany it. In fact, many women report feeling uncomfortable pressure or pain in the chest that is more diffuse, radiating to the neck, jaw, back and arms.\n\nPeople often overlook or dismiss women experiencing symptoms of a heart attack. For instance, many women report feelings of indigestion, stomach discomfort or abdominal pain. These signs can be mistaken for something less serious, leading to delays in seeking medical attention.\n\nAs a result, women may be at greater risk of having a delayed diagnosis and treatment for a heart attack.\n\n## **Recognizing early warning signs before a heart attack occurs**\nThere are several early warning signs of a heart attack that should not be ignored:\n\n- **Chest discomfort:** This is the classic sign of a heart attack. [Chest pain](https:\/\/blog.mercy.com\/common-causes-of-chest-pain\/) may feel like pressure, squeezing, or fullness in the center of the chest. It can last for a few minutes or go away and return later.\n- **Pain in other parts of the body:** Pain or discomfort may radiate to the neck, jaw, back, shoulders, arms or even the stomach. These areas often suffer when the heart muscle doesn’t receive enough blood and oxygen.\n- **Shortness of breath:** Difficulty breathing or feeling winded without exertion can be an early sign that the heart is struggling. Shortness of breath may occur alongside chest pain or may be the only symptom.\n- **Lightheadedness or dizziness:** When heart issues reduce blood flow to the brain, a feeling of faintness or loss of balance can occur. You should not take this symptom lightly.\n- **Cold sweat:** Breaking out into a cold sweat, especially if you feel anxious or out of breath, is a common sign before a heart attack occurs.\n- **Nausea or vomiting:** Some people may experience nausea or vomiting along with chest discomfort. This is especially common in women and may be mistaken for other conditions.\n## **When to call 911**\nNoticing early signs before a heart attack occurs is important, but sometimes it’s not possible. If you or someone around you experiences any of the heart attack symptoms mentioned, it’s crucial to act quickly. Call 911 and go to the [nearest emergency department](https:\/\/www.mercy.com\/locations\/emergency-room). Early treatment can help minimize damage to the heart muscle and increase the chances of a full recovery.\n\n**Learn about the [heart and vascular care](https:\/\/www.mercy.com\/health-care-services\/heart-vascular) we offer at Mercy Health.**\n***\n### Related Posts\n- [![hands-only cpr](https:\/\/blog.mercy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/hands-only-cpr.jpg) Hands-Only CPR: How it Can Save Someone’s Life](https:\/\/blog.mercy.com\/hands-only-cpr\/)\n- [![can you reverse heart disease](https:\/\/blog.mercy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Can-You-Reverse-Heart-Disease-Blog-Header.jpg) Can You Reverse Heart Disease?](https:\/\/blog.mercy.com\/can-you-reverse-heart-disease\/)\n- [![how long does a heart attack last](https:\/\/blog.mercy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/How-Long-Does-a-Heart-Attack-Last-Blog-Header.jpg) How Long Does a Heart Attack Last?](https:\/\/blog.mercy.com\/how-long-does-a-heart-attack-last\/)\n- [![](https:\/\/blog.mercy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/What-You-Should-Know-About-How-Heart-Health-Manifests-Differently-in-Women-vs.-Men.jpg) Women vs. Men: How is Heart Health Different?](https:\/\/blog.mercy.com\/women-vs-men-heart-health\/)\n\nPlease review our [Terms of Use](https:\/\/blog.mercy.com\/terms-of-use\/) before commenting.\n\n### Tags\n[cardiology](https:\/\/blog.mercy.com\/tag\/cardiology\/) [heart care](https:\/\/blog.mercy.com\/tag\/heart-care\/) [heart health](https:\/\/blog.mercy.com\/tag\/heart-health\/) [heart month](https:\/\/blog.mercy.com\/tag\/heart-month\/) [video](https:\/\/blog.mercy.com\/tag\/video\/)\n\n[![](https:\/\/blog.mercy.com\/wp-content\/themes\/mercy\/assets\/images\/mercy-logo-white.svg)](https:\/\/blog.mercy.com\/)\n\n© 2026 Mercy Health, All Rights Reserved\n\n- [Contact Us](https:\/\/www.mercy.com\/contact-us)\n- [Privacy](https:\/\/blog.mercy.com\/privacy-practices\/)\n- [Copyright Policy](https:\/\/blog.mercy.com\/mercy-health-copyright-policy\/)\n- [Website Terms of Use](https:\/\/blog.mercy.com\/terms-of-use\/)\n\n![](https:\/\/blog.mercy.com\/wp-content\/themes\/mercy\/assets\/images\/wave.png)","attrs_readable_markdown":"When it comes to recognizing the signs of a heart attack, time is a really important factor. Heart attacks often occur suddenly and can be life-threatening events. That’s why recognizing early warning signs before a heart attack can make a critical difference in saving your life.\n\nIt’s the early recognition of heart attack symptoms that can play a critical role in preventing severe damage to the heart muscle and improve the chances of recovery. Understanding what to look for can help you identify when it’s time to call 911.\n\n## **Understanding heart disease and risk factors**\nIt may be common knowledge at this point, but it’s worth restating: [Heart disease](https:\/\/www.mercy.com\/health-care-services\/heart-vascular\/conditions\/heart-disease) is the leading cause of death in the United States.\n\nThere are several risk factors that can increase the likelihood of having a [heart attack](https:\/\/www.mercy.com\/health-care-services\/heart-vascular\/conditions\/heart-attack):\n\n- **High blood pressure:** Making your heart work harder 24 hours a day, seven days a week, is never good and can cause a lot of issues with its ability to function properly.\n- **High cholesterol:** High levels of cholesterol cause plaque to build up in and around your arteries, which blocks blood flow to your heart.\n- **Diabetes:** People with diabetes are twice as likely to develop heart disease as people without diabetes.\n- **Smoking:** Smoking causes a lot of issues in your body, but regarding heart health, [smoking](https:\/\/blog.mercy.com\/quitting-smoking-benefits-heart\/) leads to damaged blood vessels.\n- **Obesity:** Excess weight and lack of exercise is a leading cause of heart disease.\n- **Sedentary lifestyle:** A lifestyle that doesn’t include much activity can lead to weight gain and strain on your heart, leading to heart disease.\n- **A family history of heart disease:** If you have a first-degree relative who has had a heart attack, you’re likely at a higher risk of having one yourself.\n- **Blood clotting** issues and [narrowed blood vessels](https:\/\/blog.mercy.com\/peripheral-artery-disease\/) can also prevent proper blood flow to the heart, increasing the risk of a heart attack.\n\nUnderstanding that heart attacks occur when a portion of the heart muscle suddenly loses its blood supply is important. A blood clot or the narrowing of the coronary arteries could limit blood flow to the heart muscle. When this blockage occurs, the tissue in the heart begins to die and this can cause permanent damage.\n\n## **Symptoms and warning signs before a heart attack**\nRecognizing the early heart attack warning signs is key to saving lives. The symptoms can appear gradually or suddenly and can vary widely from person to person. Both men and women experience heart attacks, but women often report different symptoms than men, making it harder to diagnose in some cases.\n\nChest discomfort is the most well-known and common [symptom of a heart attack](https:\/\/blog.mercy.com\/symptoms-of-a-heart-attack\/). People usually describe the discomfort as uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain, and they often feel it on the left side of the chest. It’s important to understand that chest pain may radiate to other parts of the body, including the jaw, neck, shoulders, arms or even the back. The pain may come and go or intensify over time.\n\nFor some, the chest discomfort is not as severe and may be mistaken for indigestion, an anxiety attack or [heartburn](https:\/\/blog.mercy.com\/heartburn-vs-heart-attack\/). If pain or discomfort lasts longer than a few minutes or recurs, you should treat it as a potential heart attack. If you are unsure whether it’s a heart attack, it’s always better to call 911 for emergency medical assistance.\n\n### **Uncommon symptoms in women**\nWomen may experience heart attacks differently than men. While men typically experience severe chest pain, [heart attack symptoms in women](https:\/\/blog.mercy.com\/women-vs-men-heart-health\/) may be more subtle and less obvious.\n\nShortness of breath is one of the common warning signs before a heart attack for women. Unusual fatigue, nausea, lightheadedness or even anxiety can also accompany it. In fact, many women report feeling uncomfortable pressure or pain in the chest that is more diffuse, radiating to the neck, jaw, back and arms.\n\nPeople often overlook or dismiss women experiencing symptoms of a heart attack. For instance, many women report feelings of indigestion, stomach discomfort or abdominal pain. These signs can be mistaken for something less serious, leading to delays in seeking medical attention.\n\nAs a result, women may be at greater risk of having a delayed diagnosis and treatment for a heart attack.\n\n## **Recognizing early warning signs before a heart attack occurs**\nThere are several early warning signs of a heart attack that should not be ignored:\n\n- **Chest discomfort:** This is the classic sign of a heart attack. [Chest pain](https:\/\/blog.mercy.com\/common-causes-of-chest-pain\/) may feel like pressure, squeezing, or fullness in the center of the chest. It can last for a few minutes or go away and return later.\n- **Pain in other parts of the body:** Pain or discomfort may radiate to the neck, jaw, back, shoulders, arms or even the stomach. These areas often suffer when the heart muscle doesn’t receive enough blood and oxygen.\n- **Shortness of breath:** Difficulty breathing or feeling winded without exertion can be an early sign that the heart is struggling. Shortness of breath may occur alongside chest pain or may be the only symptom.\n- **Lightheadedness or dizziness:** When heart issues reduce blood flow to the brain, a feeling of faintness or loss of balance can occur. You should not take this symptom lightly.\n- **Cold sweat:** Breaking out into a cold sweat, especially if you feel anxious or out of breath, is a common sign before a heart attack occurs.\n- **Nausea or vomiting:** Some people may experience nausea or vomiting along with chest discomfort. This is especially common in women and may be mistaken for other conditions.\n## **When to call 911**\nNoticing early signs before a heart attack occurs is important, but sometimes it’s not possible. If you or someone around you experiences any of the heart attack symptoms mentioned, it’s crucial to act quickly. Call 911 and go to the [nearest emergency department](https:\/\/www.mercy.com\/locations\/emergency-room). Early treatment can help minimize damage to the heart muscle and increase the chances of a full recovery.\n\n**Learn about the [heart and vascular care](https:\/\/www.mercy.com\/health-care-services\/heart-vascular) we offer at Mercy Health.**","meta_canonical":null}

3. Robots.txt Check

Query:

Response:

4. Spam/Ban Check

Query:

Response:

5. Seen Status Check

ℹ️ Skipped - page is already crawled

📄

INDEXABLE

✅

CRAWLED

2 months ago

🤖

ROBOTS ALLOWED

Page Info Filters

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HTTP status	PASS	`download_http_code = 200`	HTTP 200
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Spam/ban	PASS	`fh_dont_index != 1 AND ml_spam_score = 0`	ml_spam_score=0
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Page Details

Property	Value
URL	https://blog.mercy.com/signs-before-a-heart-attack/
Last Crawled	2026-02-02 08:00:18 (2 months ago)
First Indexed	2025-02-19 15:11:44 (1 year ago)
HTTP Status Code	200
Meta Title	Signs Before a Heart Attack: What to Look For - Mercy Health Blog
Meta Description	Recognizing early warning signs before a heart attack can help you get medical attention quicker, making a difference in saving your life.
Meta Canonical	null
Boilerpipe Text	When it comes to recognizing the signs of a heart attack, time is a really important factor. Heart attacks often occur suddenly and can be life-threatening events. That’s why recognizing early warning signs before a heart attack can make a critical difference in saving your life. It’s the early recognition of heart attack symptoms that can play a critical role in preventing severe damage to the heart muscle and improve the chances of recovery. Understanding what to look for can help you identify when it’s time to call 911. Understanding heart disease and risk factors It may be common knowledge at this point, but it’s worth restating: Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States. There are several risk factors that can increase the likelihood of having a heart attack : High blood pressure: Making your heart work harder 24 hours a day, seven days a week, is never good and can cause a lot of issues with its ability to function properly. High cholesterol: High levels of cholesterol cause plaque to build up in and around your arteries, which blocks blood flow to your heart. Diabetes: People with diabetes are twice as likely to develop heart disease as people without diabetes. Smoking: Smoking causes a lot of issues in your body, but regarding heart health, smoking leads to damaged blood vessels. Obesity: Excess weight and lack of exercise is a leading cause of heart disease. Sedentary lifestyle: A lifestyle that doesn’t include much activity can lead to weight gain and strain on your heart, leading to heart disease. A family history of heart disease: If you have a first-degree relative who has had a heart attack, you’re likely at a higher risk of having one yourself. Blood clotting issues and narrowed blood vessels can also prevent proper blood flow to the heart, increasing the risk of a heart attack. Understanding that heart attacks occur when a portion of the heart muscle suddenly loses its blood supply is important. A blood clot or the narrowing of the coronary arteries could limit blood flow to the heart muscle. When this blockage occurs, the tissue in the heart begins to die and this can cause permanent damage. Symptoms and warning signs before a heart attack Recognizing the early heart attack warning signs is key to saving lives. The symptoms can appear gradually or suddenly and can vary widely from person to person. Both men and women experience heart attacks, but women often report different symptoms than men, making it harder to diagnose in some cases. Chest discomfort is the most well-known and common symptom of a heart attack . People usually describe the discomfort as uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain, and they often feel it on the left side of the chest. It’s important to understand that chest pain may radiate to other parts of the body, including the jaw, neck, shoulders, arms or even the back. The pain may come and go or intensify over time. For some, the chest discomfort is not as severe and may be mistaken for indigestion, an anxiety attack or heartburn . If pain or discomfort lasts longer than a few minutes or recurs, you should treat it as a potential heart attack. If you are unsure whether it’s a heart attack, it’s always better to call 911 for emergency medical assistance. Uncommon symptoms in women Women may experience heart attacks differently than men. While men typically experience severe chest pain, heart attack symptoms in women may be more subtle and less obvious. Shortness of breath is one of the common warning signs before a heart attack for women. Unusual fatigue, nausea, lightheadedness or even anxiety can also accompany it. In fact, many women report feeling uncomfortable pressure or pain in the chest that is more diffuse, radiating to the neck, jaw, back and arms. People often overlook or dismiss women experiencing symptoms of a heart attack. For instance, many women report feelings of indigestion, stomach discomfort or abdominal pain. These signs can be mistaken for something less serious, leading to delays in seeking medical attention. As a result, women may be at greater risk of having a delayed diagnosis and treatment for a heart attack. Recognizing early warning signs before a heart attack occurs There are several early warning signs of a heart attack that should not be ignored: Chest discomfort: This is the classic sign of a heart attack. Chest pain may feel like pressure, squeezing, or fullness in the center of the chest. It can last for a few minutes or go away and return later. Pain in other parts of the body: Pain or discomfort may radiate to the neck, jaw, back, shoulders, arms or even the stomach. These areas often suffer when the heart muscle doesn’t receive enough blood and oxygen. Shortness of breath: Difficulty breathing or feeling winded without exertion can be an early sign that the heart is struggling. Shortness of breath may occur alongside chest pain or may be the only symptom. Lightheadedness or dizziness: When heart issues reduce blood flow to the brain, a feeling of faintness or loss of balance can occur. You should not take this symptom lightly. Cold sweat: Breaking out into a cold sweat, especially if you feel anxious or out of breath, is a common sign before a heart attack occurs. Nausea or vomiting: Some people may experience nausea or vomiting along with chest discomfort. This is especially common in women and may be mistaken for other conditions. When to call 911 Noticing early signs before a heart attack occurs is important, but sometimes it’s not possible. If you or someone around you experiences any of the heart attack symptoms mentioned, it’s crucial to act quickly. Call 911 and go to the nearest emergency department . Early treatment can help minimize damage to the heart muscle and increase the chances of a full recovery. Learn about the heart and vascular care we offer at Mercy Health.
Markdown	[![](https://blog.mercy.com/wp-content/themes/mercy/assets/images/mercyknot.png)](https://blog.mercy.com/) - - [Heart and Vascular](https://blog.mercy.com/category/heart-health-and-vascular-health/) - [Sports / Orthopedic](https://blog.mercy.com/category/sports-medicine-orthopedics/) - [Healthy Living](https://blog.mercy.com/category/healthy-living/) - [Stories](https://blog.mercy.com/category/mercy-stories/) - [News](https://blog.mercy.com/category/health-news/) * - [Mercy Health Home](https://www.mercy.com/) - [Find a Doctor](https://www.mercy.com/find-a-doctor) * [![Mercy Health](https://blog.mercy.com/wp-content/themes/mercy/assets/images/mercy-logo.svg)](https://blog.mercy.com/) - [Mercy Health Home](https://www.mercy.com/) - [Find a Doctor](https://www.mercy.com/find-a-doctor) [![Mercy Health](https://blog.mercy.com/wp-content/themes/mercy/assets/images/mercy-logo.svg)](https://blog.mercy.com/) - [Heart and Vascular](https://blog.mercy.com/category/heart-health-and-vascular-health/) - [Sports / Orthopedic](https://blog.mercy.com/category/sports-medicine-orthopedics/) - [Healthy Living](https://blog.mercy.com/category/healthy-living/) - [Stories](https://blog.mercy.com/category/mercy-stories/) - [News](https://blog.mercy.com/category/health-news/) ![signs before a heart attack](https://blog.mercy.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Signs-Before-a-Heart-Attack-Blog-Header-1200x610.jpg) [Heart and Vascular](https://blog.mercy.com/category/heart-health-and-vascular-health/%20) # Signs Before a Heart Attack: What to Look For Feb 19 2025 Share * When it comes to recognizing the signs of a heart attack, time is a really important factor. Heart attacks often occur suddenly and can be life-threatening events. That’s why recognizing early warning signs before a heart attack can make a critical difference in saving your life. It’s the early recognition of heart attack symptoms that can play a critical role in preventing severe damage to the heart muscle and improve the chances of recovery. Understanding what to look for can help you identify when it’s time to call 911. ## Understanding heart disease and risk factors It may be common knowledge at this point, but it’s worth restating: [Heart disease](https://www.mercy.com/health-care-services/heart-vascular/conditions/heart-disease) is the leading cause of death in the United States. There are several risk factors that can increase the likelihood of having a [heart attack](https://www.mercy.com/health-care-services/heart-vascular/conditions/heart-attack): - High blood pressure: Making your heart work harder 24 hours a day, seven days a week, is never good and can cause a lot of issues with its ability to function properly. - High cholesterol: High levels of cholesterol cause plaque to build up in and around your arteries, which blocks blood flow to your heart. - Diabetes: People with diabetes are twice as likely to develop heart disease as people without diabetes. - Smoking: Smoking causes a lot of issues in your body, but regarding heart health, [smoking](https://blog.mercy.com/quitting-smoking-benefits-heart/) leads to damaged blood vessels. - Obesity: Excess weight and lack of exercise is a leading cause of heart disease. - Sedentary lifestyle: A lifestyle that doesn’t include much activity can lead to weight gain and strain on your heart, leading to heart disease. - A family history of heart disease: If you have a first-degree relative who has had a heart attack, you’re likely at a higher risk of having one yourself. - Blood clotting issues and [narrowed blood vessels](https://blog.mercy.com/peripheral-artery-disease/) can also prevent proper blood flow to the heart, increasing the risk of a heart attack. Understanding that heart attacks occur when a portion of the heart muscle suddenly loses its blood supply is important. A blood clot or the narrowing of the coronary arteries could limit blood flow to the heart muscle. When this blockage occurs, the tissue in the heart begins to die and this can cause permanent damage. ## Symptoms and warning signs before a heart attack Recognizing the early heart attack warning signs is key to saving lives. The symptoms can appear gradually or suddenly and can vary widely from person to person. Both men and women experience heart attacks, but women often report different symptoms than men, making it harder to diagnose in some cases. Chest discomfort is the most well-known and common [symptom of a heart attack](https://blog.mercy.com/symptoms-of-a-heart-attack/). People usually describe the discomfort as uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain, and they often feel it on the left side of the chest. It’s important to understand that chest pain may radiate to other parts of the body, including the jaw, neck, shoulders, arms or even the back. The pain may come and go or intensify over time. For some, the chest discomfort is not as severe and may be mistaken for indigestion, an anxiety attack or [heartburn](https://blog.mercy.com/heartburn-vs-heart-attack/). If pain or discomfort lasts longer than a few minutes or recurs, you should treat it as a potential heart attack. If you are unsure whether it’s a heart attack, it’s always better to call 911 for emergency medical assistance. ### Uncommon symptoms in women Women may experience heart attacks differently than men. While men typically experience severe chest pain, [heart attack symptoms in women](https://blog.mercy.com/women-vs-men-heart-health/) may be more subtle and less obvious. Shortness of breath is one of the common warning signs before a heart attack for women. Unusual fatigue, nausea, lightheadedness or even anxiety can also accompany it. In fact, many women report feeling uncomfortable pressure or pain in the chest that is more diffuse, radiating to the neck, jaw, back and arms. People often overlook or dismiss women experiencing symptoms of a heart attack. For instance, many women report feelings of indigestion, stomach discomfort or abdominal pain. These signs can be mistaken for something less serious, leading to delays in seeking medical attention. As a result, women may be at greater risk of having a delayed diagnosis and treatment for a heart attack. ## Recognizing early warning signs before a heart attack occurs There are several early warning signs of a heart attack that should not be ignored: - Chest discomfort: This is the classic sign of a heart attack. [Chest pain](https://blog.mercy.com/common-causes-of-chest-pain/) may feel like pressure, squeezing, or fullness in the center of the chest. It can last for a few minutes or go away and return later. - Pain in other parts of the body: Pain or discomfort may radiate to the neck, jaw, back, shoulders, arms or even the stomach. These areas often suffer when the heart muscle doesn’t receive enough blood and oxygen. - Shortness of breath: Difficulty breathing or feeling winded without exertion can be an early sign that the heart is struggling. Shortness of breath may occur alongside chest pain or may be the only symptom. - Lightheadedness or dizziness: When heart issues reduce blood flow to the brain, a feeling of faintness or loss of balance can occur. You should not take this symptom lightly. - Cold sweat: Breaking out into a cold sweat, especially if you feel anxious or out of breath, is a common sign before a heart attack occurs. - Nausea or vomiting: Some people may experience nausea or vomiting along with chest discomfort. This is especially common in women and may be mistaken for other conditions. ## When to call 911 Noticing early signs before a heart attack occurs is important, but sometimes it’s not possible. If you or someone around you experiences any of the heart attack symptoms mentioned, it’s crucial to act quickly. Call 911 and go to the [nearest emergency department](https://www.mercy.com/locations/emergency-room). Early treatment can help minimize damage to the heart muscle and increase the chances of a full recovery. Learn about the [heart and vascular care](https://www.mercy.com/health-care-services/heart-vascular) we offer at Mercy Health. * ### Related Posts - [![hands-only cpr](https://blog.mercy.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/hands-only-cpr.jpg) Hands-Only CPR: How it Can Save Someone’s Life](https://blog.mercy.com/hands-only-cpr/) - [![can you reverse heart disease](https://blog.mercy.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Can-You-Reverse-Heart-Disease-Blog-Header.jpg) Can You Reverse Heart Disease?](https://blog.mercy.com/can-you-reverse-heart-disease/) - [![how long does a heart attack last](https://blog.mercy.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/How-Long-Does-a-Heart-Attack-Last-Blog-Header.jpg) How Long Does a Heart Attack Last?](https://blog.mercy.com/how-long-does-a-heart-attack-last/) - [![](https://blog.mercy.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/What-You-Should-Know-About-How-Heart-Health-Manifests-Differently-in-Women-vs.-Men.jpg) Women vs. Men: How is Heart Health Different?](https://blog.mercy.com/women-vs-men-heart-health/) Please review our [Terms of Use](https://blog.mercy.com/terms-of-use/) before commenting. ### Tags [cardiology](https://blog.mercy.com/tag/cardiology/) [heart care](https://blog.mercy.com/tag/heart-care/) [heart health](https://blog.mercy.com/tag/heart-health/) [heart month](https://blog.mercy.com/tag/heart-month/) [video](https://blog.mercy.com/tag/video/) [![](https://blog.mercy.com/wp-content/themes/mercy/assets/images/mercy-logo-white.svg)](https://blog.mercy.com/) © 2026 Mercy Health, All Rights Reserved - [Contact Us](https://www.mercy.com/contact-us) - [Privacy](https://blog.mercy.com/privacy-practices/) - [Copyright Policy](https://blog.mercy.com/mercy-health-copyright-policy/) - [Website Terms of Use](https://blog.mercy.com/terms-of-use/) ![](https://blog.mercy.com/wp-content/themes/mercy/assets/images/wave.png)
Readable Markdown	When it comes to recognizing the signs of a heart attack, time is a really important factor. Heart attacks often occur suddenly and can be life-threatening events. That’s why recognizing early warning signs before a heart attack can make a critical difference in saving your life. It’s the early recognition of heart attack symptoms that can play a critical role in preventing severe damage to the heart muscle and improve the chances of recovery. Understanding what to look for can help you identify when it’s time to call 911. ## Understanding heart disease and risk factors It may be common knowledge at this point, but it’s worth restating: [Heart disease](https://www.mercy.com/health-care-services/heart-vascular/conditions/heart-disease) is the leading cause of death in the United States. There are several risk factors that can increase the likelihood of having a [heart attack](https://www.mercy.com/health-care-services/heart-vascular/conditions/heart-attack): - High blood pressure: Making your heart work harder 24 hours a day, seven days a week, is never good and can cause a lot of issues with its ability to function properly. - High cholesterol: High levels of cholesterol cause plaque to build up in and around your arteries, which blocks blood flow to your heart. - Diabetes: People with diabetes are twice as likely to develop heart disease as people without diabetes. - Smoking: Smoking causes a lot of issues in your body, but regarding heart health, [smoking](https://blog.mercy.com/quitting-smoking-benefits-heart/) leads to damaged blood vessels. - Obesity: Excess weight and lack of exercise is a leading cause of heart disease. - Sedentary lifestyle: A lifestyle that doesn’t include much activity can lead to weight gain and strain on your heart, leading to heart disease. - A family history of heart disease: If you have a first-degree relative who has had a heart attack, you’re likely at a higher risk of having one yourself. - Blood clotting issues and [narrowed blood vessels](https://blog.mercy.com/peripheral-artery-disease/) can also prevent proper blood flow to the heart, increasing the risk of a heart attack. Understanding that heart attacks occur when a portion of the heart muscle suddenly loses its blood supply is important. A blood clot or the narrowing of the coronary arteries could limit blood flow to the heart muscle. When this blockage occurs, the tissue in the heart begins to die and this can cause permanent damage. ## Symptoms and warning signs before a heart attack Recognizing the early heart attack warning signs is key to saving lives. The symptoms can appear gradually or suddenly and can vary widely from person to person. Both men and women experience heart attacks, but women often report different symptoms than men, making it harder to diagnose in some cases. Chest discomfort is the most well-known and common [symptom of a heart attack](https://blog.mercy.com/symptoms-of-a-heart-attack/). People usually describe the discomfort as uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain, and they often feel it on the left side of the chest. It’s important to understand that chest pain may radiate to other parts of the body, including the jaw, neck, shoulders, arms or even the back. The pain may come and go or intensify over time. For some, the chest discomfort is not as severe and may be mistaken for indigestion, an anxiety attack or [heartburn](https://blog.mercy.com/heartburn-vs-heart-attack/). If pain or discomfort lasts longer than a few minutes or recurs, you should treat it as a potential heart attack. If you are unsure whether it’s a heart attack, it’s always better to call 911 for emergency medical assistance. ### Uncommon symptoms in women Women may experience heart attacks differently than men. While men typically experience severe chest pain, [heart attack symptoms in women](https://blog.mercy.com/women-vs-men-heart-health/) may be more subtle and less obvious. Shortness of breath is one of the common warning signs before a heart attack for women. Unusual fatigue, nausea, lightheadedness or even anxiety can also accompany it. In fact, many women report feeling uncomfortable pressure or pain in the chest that is more diffuse, radiating to the neck, jaw, back and arms. People often overlook or dismiss women experiencing symptoms of a heart attack. For instance, many women report feelings of indigestion, stomach discomfort or abdominal pain. These signs can be mistaken for something less serious, leading to delays in seeking medical attention. As a result, women may be at greater risk of having a delayed diagnosis and treatment for a heart attack. ## Recognizing early warning signs before a heart attack occurs There are several early warning signs of a heart attack that should not be ignored: - Chest discomfort: This is the classic sign of a heart attack. [Chest pain](https://blog.mercy.com/common-causes-of-chest-pain/) may feel like pressure, squeezing, or fullness in the center of the chest. It can last for a few minutes or go away and return later. - Pain in other parts of the body: Pain or discomfort may radiate to the neck, jaw, back, shoulders, arms or even the stomach. These areas often suffer when the heart muscle doesn’t receive enough blood and oxygen. - Shortness of breath: Difficulty breathing or feeling winded without exertion can be an early sign that the heart is struggling. Shortness of breath may occur alongside chest pain or may be the only symptom. - Lightheadedness or dizziness: When heart issues reduce blood flow to the brain, a feeling of faintness or loss of balance can occur. You should not take this symptom lightly. - Cold sweat: Breaking out into a cold sweat, especially if you feel anxious or out of breath, is a common sign before a heart attack occurs. - Nausea or vomiting: Some people may experience nausea or vomiting along with chest discomfort. This is especially common in women and may be mistaken for other conditions. ## When to call 911 Noticing early signs before a heart attack occurs is important, but sometimes it’s not possible. If you or someone around you experiences any of the heart attack symptoms mentioned, it’s crucial to act quickly. Call 911 and go to the [nearest emergency department](https://www.mercy.com/locations/emergency-room). Early treatment can help minimize damage to the heart muscle and increase the chances of a full recovery. Learn about the [heart and vascular care](https://www.mercy.com/health-care-services/heart-vascular) we offer at Mercy Health.
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