Some heart attacks are sudden and intense and there is no doubt what is happening; however, most heart attacks start slowly, with mild pain or discomfort. Often people aren't sure what's wrong and wait too long before getting help.

Warning signs of a heart attack

• Chest discomfort: uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness, or pain in the center of the chest that lasts more than a few minutes, or goes away and comes back.

• Shortness of breath: may often occur with or before chest discomfort.

• Discomfort in other areas of the upper body;this may be felt in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw, or stomach.

• Sweating, nausea or dizziness.

• Women, the elderly or diabetics may be more likely to present with symptoms other than chest pain — such as shortness of breath, back pain, or nausea and vomiting.

If you believe you are having a heart attack, call 9-1-1 right away.