Some heart attacks are sudden and intense, where there's no doubt what's going on. But most heart attacks start slowly, with mild pain or discomfort. Here are signs that could mean a heart attack is happening:

• Chest pain and/or pressure
• Arm, neck or jaw pain
• Arm numbness or weakness
• Unusual sweating
• Shortness of breath
• Associated nausea

Just like men, women's most common heart attack symptom is chest pain or discomfort. However, women are somewhat more likely than men to experience some of the other common symptoms, particularly shortness of breath, nausea/vomiting and back or jaw pain.

If you or someone you're with has any one of these symptoms, call 911 immediately.

We can't give medical advice over the phone. If you have questions, please call Ask a Nurse at (303) 777-6877 or visit their national website http://www.askanurse.com.