Recognizing a heart attack early is crucial, as quick treatment can save heart tissue and lives. Common warning signs include chest discomfort—often described as pressure, squeezing, fullness, or pain—that lasts more than 30 minutes or comes and goes. This discomfort may radiate to the arms, back, neck, jaw, or stomach.

Many people also experience shortness of breath, either with or without chest pain. Other symptoms can include

• sweating,
• nausea,
• light-headedness,
• or an unexplained feeling of anxiety

It’s important to note that heart attack symptoms can vary from person to person. Some individuals, particularly women, older adults, and people with diabetes may experience subtler signs, such as fatigue, indigestion-like discomfort, or mild chest pressure rather than sharp pain.

Because symptoms may be vague or gradual, they’re sometimes dismissed as minor issues. However, any sudden or unusual combination of these signs should be treated seriously.

A heart attack can happen at any time, including in the workplace. That’s why it’s essential for businesses to have designated First Aid–trained staff in line with Health and Safety regulations. Milne Safety provides a the three-day First Aid at Work course and the Emergency First Aid at Work course, both courses include defibrillator training. Join us on our open courses at our training centre in Wymondham, the next training scheduled for…

Emergency First Aid at Work – 29^th January 2026

First Aid at Work – 23^rd to 25^th February 2026

To book email sales@milnesafety.co.uk