A heart attack occurs when blood flow to a part of the heart muscle is blocked. The longer the blood flow is blocked, the greater the damage to the heart muscle.

Common Warning Signs

1. Chest Pain or Discomfort: Most heart attacks involve discomfort in the center of the chest that lasts more than a few minutes, or that goes away and comes back. It can feel like uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain.

2. Shortness of Breath: This can occur with or without chest discomfort.

3. Pain in Arms, Back, Neck, Jaw or Stomach: Pain or discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw or stomach can be a sign.

4. Cold Sweat, Nausea, or Lightheadedness: Breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea or feeling lightheaded are additional warning signs.

What to Do

If you or someone you know experiences these symptoms, call emergency services immediately. Do not wait — every minute matters.

Dr. Deebanshu Gupta recommends regular cardiac check-ups for people above 40 years of age, especially those with a family history of heart disease.