Toolbox Talk: Signs of Heart Attacks — Know the Symptoms, Save a Life
Did You Know?
Every 40 seconds, someone in the U.S. has a heart attack. [1]
KNOW THE RISK
- Heart attacks, also called myocardial infarctions, occur when blood flow to the heart muscle is blocked. [1]
- Coronary artery disease is the leading cause of heart attacks, often developing silently over years. [1]
- Each year in the U.S., about 600,000 people experience their first heart attack. [2]
- The average age for a first heart attack is 65 for men and 72 for women.
MITIGATE THE RISK
1. Know the Warning Signs
- Symptoms include chest pain or pressure, pain in the arm, jaw, or neck, shortness of breath, and cold sweats. Don’t ignore discomfort — even mild symptoms can signal trouble. [1]
2. Recognize Less Obvious Symptoms
- Fatigue, lightheadedness, nausea, and anxiety can also indicate a heart attack — especially in women. [1]
3. Call 911 Immediately
- Minutes matter. Don’t drive yourself or delay — emergency responders can begin treatment en route to the hospital. [1]
4. Be Prepared for CPR or AED Use
- If the person becomes unconscious or unresponsive, begin CPR and use an AED (automated external defibrillator) if one is available. [1]
HEALTH EMERGENCY REMINDER
Heart attacks don’t always look dramatic — and symptoms can vary by person. Act quickly when something feels off. It’s far better to be safe and wrong than sorry and too late.