How to Recognise a Heart Attack
Information provided is not a substitute for professional medical advice and you always seek appropriate professional help or seek immediate medical attention for serious conditions. See full disclaimer here
❤️ How to Recognise a Heart Attack
A heart attack is a life-threatening medical emergency where the blood supply to part of the heart is suddenly blocked or restricted.
Recognising the early signs and acting fast can save a life.
Even if you’re not sure, always call 999 or 112 immediately. It’s safer to be checked than to wait.
🚨 Common Signs and Symptoms
Not everyone experiences a heart attack the same way, but these are the key signs to look for:
Chest pain or discomfort – often a feeling of pressure, tightness, or heaviness in the centre of the chest.
Pain spreading to one or both arms, neck, jaw, back, or stomach.
Shortness of breath, even when resting.
Feeling sick, sweaty, or light-headed.
Pale, clammy skin.
Anxiety or a feeling something is seriously wrong.
⚠️ Some people — especially women, older adults, and people with diabetes — may only feel mild chest discomfort, indigestion-like pain, or unusual tiredness.
Never ignore symptoms that feel “not quite right.”
🧭 What to Do
Call 999 or 112 immediately.
Say that you think someone is having a heart attack.Help them sit down comfortably.
A half-sitting position with support behind the back and knees bent. So they look like a ‘W’Keep them calm and still.
Encourage slow, steady breathing to reduce strain on the heart.If they’re conscious and not allergic, ask if they have Aspirin on them, they need 300 mg to chew slowly.
Monitor closely until help arrives.
If they become unresponsive and stop breathing, begin hands-only CPR — see How to Perform CPR.
🩺 Important Don’ts
❌ Don’t try to drive them to hospital yourself — wait for paramedics.
❌ Don’t give them food or drink.
❌ Don’t ignore “mild” symptoms or hope they’ll go away.
🧠 Understanding the Risk Factors
Heart attacks are often linked to:
High blood pressure
Smoking
Diabetes
High cholesterol
Lack of exercise or poor diet
Family history of heart disease
Knowing your risks and recognising early warning signs can save lives — including your own.
Learn These Life-Saving Skills
Our First Aid at Work and Emergency First Aid courses include essential training on recognising heart attacks, responding effectively, and performing CPR.
👉 Book a First Aid Course
(Delivered at our Suffolk HQ or on-site for groups of six or more.)
Disclaimer
This article offers general first aid guidance for public use. Always call 999 or 112 immediately if you suspect a heart attack, even if symptoms seem mild.