How to Know If You're Having a Heart Attack

Are you having a heart attack or experiencing chest pain that's related to heart disease?

"It's important to understand the difference between the two," says Eryn Smith, M.S., PA-C, a physician's assistant in Michigan Medicine's Frankel Cardiovascular Center, since they may feel similar, but a heart attack requires immediate medical attention.

"Angina, a symptom of heart disease, is when the arteries of the heart are narrowed down, but not completely closed off. This is very different than a heart attack. A heart attack is when the arteries of the heart suddenly close off and the sudden closure causes a sensation of chest pain," Smith explains.

Signs of a heart attack include:

- Uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain in the center of the chest that comes on quickly and won't go away with rest.

- Pain or discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw or stomach.

- Shortness of breath with or without chest discomfort.

- Other signs such as breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea or lightheadedness.

(If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, call 9-1-1 immediately.)

Signs of angina include:

- Chest pain, usually present during exertion.

- Pain or discomfort subsides with rest.