Silent heart attack: Subtle signs of a heart attack you should never ignore

Most people are familiar with the “classic” heart attack symptom—chest pain. But did you know it’s possible to have a heart attack without chest pain? It’s called a “silent heart attack,” and the signs of a heart attack aren’t always as obvious as you might expect.

While heart attacks often do cause chest pain, some people may not experience any chest pain and others might experience only minor pain.

Here’s what to know about a silent heart attack, and what to do if you or a loved one experiences symptoms.

What is a silent heart attack?

When a heart attack occurs without the person even knowing it, this is what’s called a silent heart attack, or silent ischemia (lack of oxygen). Sometimes, the signs of a heart attack are recognizable but subtle, such as indigestion or excessive fatigue.

A heart attack usually occurs when a cholesterol plaque ruptures open, forming a blood clot that blocks the flow of blood through a coronary artery, a vessel that feeds blood to your heart. Interrupted blood flow can damage or destroy a part of the heart muscle. In the event of a heart attack, rapid treatment is vital regardless of the specific symptoms.

Bottom line: not every heart attack looks the same. Know the common signs but listen to your body and if something doesn’t feel right, talk to your doctor or call 911.

Signs of a heart attack

Understanding the warning signs and knowing when to act can make all the difference in getting timely treatment for a heart attack.

Common heart attack symptoms include:

• Chest pressure or heaviness, a feeling of fullness or a squeezing pain in the center of your chest that lasts for more than a few minutes
• Pain extending beyond your chest to your shoulder, arm, back, neck or even to your teeth and jaw
• Increasing episodes of chest pain (increasing in frequency, intensity or duration)
• Prolonged pain in the upper abdomen
• Shortness of breath
• Sweating or clammy skin
• Impending sense of doom
• Fainting
• Lightheadedness or dizziness
• Unusual or unexplained fatigue
• Nausea and vomiting

Did any of these symptoms surprise you? Do yourself and your loved ones a favor—share these signs and symptoms with them. You never know when this knowledge could save a life.

Signs of heart attack in women

Keep in mind that women are more likely than men to experience signs of a heart attack without the classic symptoms of chest pain. Heart attack symptoms are often more subtle in women and can easily be confused with indigestion or stress.

It’s also important to know that some of these warning signs may appear days or weeks before a heart attack occurs. And because women’s symptoms are not always as obvious, they’re easy to dismiss or misdiagnose. This is why it’s critical to recognize these warning signs and seek medical attention immediately.

What to do if you experience a heart attack

If you or someone around you is experiencing one or more of these signs of a heart attack, don’t wait. Call 911 immediately. Every minute counts, and emergency responders can begin life-saving treatment on the way to the hospital.

Try to stay as calm as possible. If you're with someone experiencing symptoms, have them sit down, loosen tight clothing and stay with them until help arrives.

Never drive yourself or someone else to the hospital unless there's absolutely no other option—emergency services are faster and safer in these situations.

Are you at risk for a heart attack? Take this quiz and find out.