Heart attack: The full list of symptoms that signal the heart muscle is dying

Although a heart attack can vary in intensity, there are common symptoms that people may experience. As more signs are checked off, it’s more likely you need to go to the Accidents and Emergency (A&E) department in a hospital. The British Heart Foundation (BHF) explained that people have different thresholds for pain, hence why symptoms can differ in intensity. Some pain may experience an uncomfortable sensation in their chest – similar to indigestion, if it’s accompanied by a burning sensation.

This is one warning sign of a heart attack; others may describe it as “pressure, squeezing or heaviness” in the chest.

The key factor is that the chest discomfort doesn’t go away, and then spreads to another body part, such as:

The neck
The jaw
The back
The stomach
The arms (either or both)

These symptoms alone warrant a rapid call to 999, who are likely to send out an ambulance if they believe you’re at risk.

Other clues you might be having a heart attack include a feeling of nausea.

READ MORE: How to live longer: Walking every day promotes longevity

Should an ambulance be sent out to you, it’ll help to take aspirin if available, to sit down, rest and try to relax until the paramedics arrive.

“If you’re with someone who’s experiencing heart attack symptoms but they’re putting off or refusing to call an ambulance, it’s really important that you call one for them,” added the BHF.