Don't Hesitate. Call 9-1-1

Act fast if someone has signs of heart attack, stroke, or cardiac arrest.

Emergency Signs: When to Call 9-1-1

1. Signs of a Heart Attack

If you experience any of these signs, call 9-1-1 or your local emergency number immediately.

  • Chest discomfort: Pressure, squeezing, fullness, pain, burning, or heaviness.
  • Upper body discomfort: Pain in the neck, jaw, shoulder, arms, or back.
  • Sweating: Sudden, cold sweats.
  • Nausea: Feeling sick to your stomach.
  • Shortness of breath: Difficulty breathing.
  • Light-headedness: Feeling dizzy or faint.

⚠️ Women’s Specific Signs

While chest pain is the most common sign, women can experience a heart attack without chest pressure. Be alert for:

  • Shortness of breath
  • Pressure or pain in the lower chest or upper abdomen
  • Dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting
  • Upper back pressure
  • Extreme fatigue

2. Signs of Stroke

A stroke is a medical emergency. If you see these signs, call 9-1-1 immediately.

DO NOT DRIVE: Do not drive yourself or the patient to the hospital. An ambulance will get you to the best hospital for stroke care and treatment can begin on the way.

3. Signs of Cardiac Arrest

When the heart stops beating, blood stops flowing to the brain and vital organs. Brain injury can begin within minutes.

  • Sudden collapse
  • Loss of consciousness
  • Unresponsiveness to touch or sound
  • Not breathing (or gasping/not breathing normally)