Heart attacks often don’t come out of nowhere — your body usually sends warning signals hours, days, or even weeks before.

Recognizing these signs early could literally save your life or the life of someone you love.

1. Chest Discomfort or Pain

This is the most common sign. It may feel like pressure, squeezing, fullness, or pain in the center or left side of the chest. The discomfort may last for a few minutes, go away, and then return.

2. Shortness of Breath

You may feel breathless even when sitting still or doing light activity. This can happen before or along with chest pain.

3. Pain in Other Areas of the Body

The discomfort can spread beyond the chest — to the shoulders, arms (especially the left one), back, neck, jaw, or even the stomach.

4. Cold Sweats

Breaking out in a sudden, clammy sweat without much physical effort is another red flag.

5. Nausea or Lightheadedness

Feeling sick to your stomach, unusually weak, or dizzy may signal that the heart isn’t getting enough blood.