Emergency signs: When to call 9-1-1

Signs of a heart attack

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

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  • Chest discomfort Chest discomfort Pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain, burning or heaviness
  • Sweating Sweating
  • Upper body discomfort Upper body discomfort Neck, jaw, shoulder, arms, back
  • Nausea Nausea
  • Shortness of breath Shortness of breath
  • Light-headedness Light-headedness
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Women’s signs of heart attack

The most common heart attack sign is chest pain or discomfort; however, women can experience a heart attack without chest pressure. They may experience shortness of breath, pressure or pain in the lower chest or upper abdomen, dizziness, lightheadedness or fainting, upper back pressure or extreme fatigue.

Signs of stroke

Stroke is a medical emergency.
If you experience any of these signs, call 9-1-1. Do not drive to the hospital. An ambulance will get you to the best hospital for stroke care.

FAST signs of stroke

Signs of cardiac arrest

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

  1. Sudden collapse

  2. Loss of consciousness

  3. Unresponsiveness to touch or sound

  4. Not breathing normally or making gasping sounds