Public health officials are reminding people to be aware of the signs of a heart attack.
February is American Heart Month. Natalie Sawyer, a health educator with the Southern 7 Health Department, said heart attack symptoms can be different for each person, and it's critical to pay attention to new or unusual pain that could signal a problem.
"Some of the common signs, if they are there, are pain or discomfort in the chest, it can be in the jaw, neck, back, arms, or even the shoulder. A lot of the time you'll hear about the left arm but that's not always the case. Lightheadedness or dizziness, and then it can also be nausea or vomiting included as well," she said.
Sawyer said it's important for people to be aware of the risk factors associated with heart disease, like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, and lack of exercise.
Anyone who thinks they may be having a heart attack should seek medical care immediately.
