But cardiovascular problems are also among the possibilities.
A significant unexplained change in exercise tolerance is worth discussing with a healthcare professional.
When to Seek Emergency Help
Some symptoms should never be handled by waiting at home to see what happens.
Seek emergency medical help if you experience symptoms suggestive of a heart attack, particularly:
- New or severe chest pressure or discomfort
- Chest discomfort that lasts several minutes or returns
- Chest discomfort with shortness of breath
- Pain spreading to the arm, jaw, neck, back, or upper abdomen
- Cold sweating
- Severe nausea
- Fainting or severe lightheadedness
- Severe difficulty breathing
If you think you may be having a heart attack, don’t drive yourself if emergency medical services are available.
Emergency teams can begin care while transporting you.
What If the Symptoms Are Mild?
A common mistake is assuming that mild symptoms cannot be serious.
Some heart attacks begin with relatively mild or unusual symptoms.
