Heart attack is the leading cause of death in America today. People often deny symptoms, confuse them for indigestion or delay seeking treatment. However, the sooner you get to the Emergency Room, the better your chances -- not only of surviving -- but of lessening the damage done to the heart.

You should not try to diagnose your condition, but becoming informed of the signs and symptoms of heart attack will make you more aware should it occur. Many people who have a heart attack experience symptoms other than chest pain. Any one of these symptoms can be a sign of heart attack:

• chest pain behind the sternum (breastbone)
• pain may radiate to the:
• neck, teeth, or jaw
• arms, shoulder, or back
• abdomen
• pain is similar to angina, but not relieved by rest or nitroglycerin
• pain that may be described as:
• squeezing, aching, tightness, or pressure
• a tight band on the chest
• "an elephant sitting on my chest"
• "bad indigestion" or heartburn
• shortness of breath that occurs suddenly
• sweating, may be profuse
• nausea or vomiting
• light-headedness, dizziness, or fainting

Take our online cardiac risk assessment to see your chances of having a heart attack.