General health
Heart attack: don't wait to be sure
Chest pain isn't always dramatic. Minutes matter — know the signs and call for help early.
· 2 min read
Common signs
Pressure, tightness or pain in the chest lasting more than a few minutes, which may spread to the arm, neck, jaw or back; with sweating, breathlessness, nausea or light-headedness. Women, older people and people with diabetes may have milder or unusual symptoms.
What to do
Stop what you are doing and sit down. Call the emergency line or come to the nearest emergency unit straight away — don't drive yourself. Bring a list of your medicines and any previous ECG.
This article is general information, not a diagnosis. Please see a doctor about your own symptoms. In an emergency, call 01789-446240.
