Treatment for a heart attack must start early, that is why it is important to know the symptoms of a heart attack. The most common symptoms are pain or tightness in the chest radiating to the arm and jaw, shortness of breath, breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea, weakness, dizziness, or lightheadedness. The heart muscle begins to be damaged within 90 minutes. Clot busting medications and angioplasty are effective treatment.