While the common symptoms of a heart attack are the same for men and women, some men may have unusual signs that precede the onset of an actual heart attack. Some men may feel vague discomfort, fatigue, and/or a general sense of unease. Some may have jaw or back pain, and some may even feel numbness or tingling in their extremities. Although male and female symptoms differ from each other, they are similar enough to warrant a close examination.
The first common symptom of a heart attack is the onset of chest discomfort, usually on the left or middle chest. The pain may be sharp or feel squeezing, or it may even be accompanied by nausea and lightheadedness. Shortness of breath can also precede these symptoms, and can be accompanied by pain in the arm and neck. Other symptoms include nausea and cold sweating. These are all signs that the body is struggling to supply enough blood to the heart.
Men can experience shortness of breath, which may not accompany chest pain. The symptoms of a silent heart attack can include shortness of breath, lightheadedness, fainting, and dizziness. These are signs to seek medical attention right away. Some men experience these signs, but they may not be able to identify the signs of a heart attack. However, the presence of any of these signs is a serious indication of an impending heart attack.
