If You Have Trouble Breathing...

Severe shortness of breath is a key heart attack symptom to be aware of.  This symptom can come on suddenly.  It may occur while you are at rest or with minimal physical activity.  You may struggle to breathe or try taking deep breaths.  Shortness of breath may start before or at the same time as chest pain or discomfort, and can even be your only symptom.  If you have trouble breathing, see your doctor.

Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc., Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics (661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com 5060 California Ave., #170, Bakersfield, CA 93309

Know the Symptoms of a Heart Attack

Chest pain or discomfort unusually heavy pressure on the chest, like there's a ton of weight on you. Most heart attacks involve chest pain or discomfort in the center or left side of the chest. It usually lasts for more than a few minutes or goes away and comes back.  It can feel like uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness, or pain.  It may even feel like heartburn or indigestion.

Sharp upper body pain can also occur in the neck, back, and jaw.  This symptom can include pain or discomfort in one or both arms, the back, shoulders, neck, jaw, or upper part of stomach (not below the belly button).  Pain in the back, neck, or jaw is a more common heart attack symptom for women than it is for men.

Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc., Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics (661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com 5060 California Ave., #170, Bakersfield, CA 93309