Chest pain or symptoms of stroke
If you’re having chest pain or stroke symptoms like numbness, tingling, weakness or loss of movement in an arm or leg, see a doctor immediately. Chest pain that lasts longer than 15 minutes is typically not caused by indigestion or heartburn. It could be a sign of a serious health condition like heart attack or angina. Chest pain that lasts 10 minutes is a good time to call 911. If it doesn’t pass after 30 minutes, seek medical attention.
If you or someone around you experiences chest pain, call 911. It’s possible it could be a symptom of a heart attack. Chest pain during a heart attack is not necessarily going to be described as pressure—many people describe it as an intense burning, crushing or tightness in their chest and left arm that can radiate into their neck, jaw and stomach area. No matter what type of pain you feel, it’s important that you call 911 immediately. This is also true if you witness someone having a stroke—stroke symptoms include slurred speech and loss of balance; they can progress quickly so don’t wait until they pass out before calling for help.
Many symptoms of a heart attack are similar to those of a stroke. If you think you’re having a heart attack, it’s essential that you get treatment as soon as possible. Symptoms include chest pain or discomfort (often in the center of your chest), tightness, pressure, or heaviness; nausea; upper body pain; shortness of breath with or without chest discomfort; and lightheadedness, fainting, or sudden dizziness. Chest pain is not always present in a heart attack and not all people who have it will have all these symptoms.
