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Atypical Symptoms Of A Heart Attack

By Dr. Brian McDonough, Medical Editor

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - A squeezing sensation on the chest. Pain that can radiate to the arm or up into the jaw. Complaints of nausea and sweating. These are the typical signs of a heart attack, but there are other signs and symptoms as well; some unusual signs that affect some men and women.

Many women don't have chest pain, so what are the most common symptoms for women? They include shortness of breath, weakness, and fatigue. There can be feelings of indigestion and even upper back pain.

Of course, many of these symptoms are unrelated to heart attack and this can also be a problem. Many women don't seek care quickly enough.

The main point is if you have strange symptoms and can't put your finger on an obvious cause, you need to think of heart attack as a possibility. I think that's the most important thing because early care, early and often, is important.

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