A heart attack happens when blood flow to the heart is blocked, usually by a blood clot. If a heart attack is not treated immediately, it can cause a lot of damage to the heart and even be fatal.

Knowing the warning signs of a heart attack can help you get medical help quickly and reduce the chances of serious damage to the heart. Here are four warning signs to watch out for:.

Chest pain or discomfort

Chest pain is the most common warning sign of a heart attack. The pain may feel like heavy pressure on the chest or a squeezing sensation. Some people describe it as feeling like someone is sitting on their chest.

The pain may also spread to other parts of the body, such as the arms, back, neck, jaw, or stomach. It is important to note that not all chest pain is related to heart problems, but you should still seek medical attention if you are experiencing chest pain.

Shortness of breath

If you are having difficulty breathing or feel like you can’t catch your breath, this could be a warning sign of a heart attack.

Shortness of breath can occur with or without chest pain, and it may be accompanied by other symptoms such as dizziness or nausea. If you are suddenly experiencing shortness of breath without an obvious cause, get medical help right away.

Nausea, vomiting, or indigestion

These symptoms may be present in some people before or during a heart attack. They may be mistaken for other conditions, such as the flu or indigestion.

If you are experiencing nausea, vomiting, or indigestion along with chest pain or shortness of breath, seek medical attention immediately.

Fatigue or weakness

Feeling excessively tired or weak for no apparent reason can be a warning sign of a heart attack. This can be especially true for women, who may not experience the chest pain typically associated with a heart attack.

If you are feeling unusually fatigued or weak and are at risk for heart disease, seek medical attention.

If you are experiencing any of these warning signs, it is important to seek medical attention right away. Don’t wait to see if the symptoms go away on their own.

Even if it turns out not to be a heart attack, it is better to be safe than sorry when it comes to heart health.