Sweating during physical activity or in hot weather is healthy. But when individuals begin perspiring while experiencing discomfort in their chest, arm, neck or jaw -- with little or no exertion -- it could be the onset of a heart attack, according to a new study at the University of Illinois at Chicago.

"We can stop a heart attack during the process, but you have to get to the hospital first," said Catherine Ryan, research assistant professor of medical surgical nursing. "The real push for improved survival is to get them there early."

Ryan presented her findings at the American Heart Association's annual meeting this week in Dallas.

Time is of the essence during a heart attack, and doctors have urged people who experience common symptoms -- shortness of breath, cold sweats, nausea, lightheadedness, or discomfort in the chest, arm, neck or jaw -- to get to a hospital as quickly as possible. But delay in seeking treatment is common, and worsens the outcome after a heart attack, Ryan said.