When a heart attack strikes, fast action can make a life-saving difference.

New clot-busting drugs can actually stop some heart attacks in progress, but to be effective, these drugs must be given relatively quickly after heart attack symptoms first appear.

Contrary to the sudden intense pain you may imagine, most heart attacks start slowly, often with mild discomfort or pressure in the chest, one or both arms, the back and neck.

It’s believed that symptoms tend to be different for men and women. While men tend to feel the classic chest pain, women may more often experience nausea, stomach or jaw discomfort.

Whatever the symptoms, the feeling may go away and return. When this happens, some people aren't sure what is wrong, so they wait too long before getting help.

Learn the warning signs and don't hesitate to call 911, especially if you have a family history of heart attacks. A possible heart attack is considered a true medical emergency. By calling 911, emergency medical services (EMS) staff can usually begin treatment up to an hour sooner than if someone gets to the hospital by car.

Patients brought to a hospital by ambulance with EMS often get more prompt attention upon arrival, giving you the best chance for a full recovery.