Early Heart Attack Care (EHAC) means knowing the subtle signs that can signal a heart attack and getting help immediately. According to the Society of Cardiovascular Patient Care (formerly the Society of Chest Pain Centers), 85 percent of heart damage occurs within the first two hours of a heart attack. You may or may not experience any or all of these symptoms. Read our presentation on EHAC and the signs of heart attack.
You can also visit the SCPC Deputy Heart Attack page to learn essential early heart attack care education for yourself and to share with others.
Early symptoms of heart attack
- Nausea
- Feeling of fullness
- Shortness of breath
- Back pain
- Chest pressure, squeezing, or discomfort
- Anxiety
- Fatigue
- Jaw pain
- Pain that travels down one or both arm
People may also experience mild symptoms in the chest such as pressure, burning, aching or tightness. These symptoms may come and go until becoming constant and severe.