Symptom: Chest Pain/Pressure

Recognizing Chest Pain as a Symptom of a Heart Attack

Experiencing chest pain can be alarming, especially when it comes on suddenly. While chest pain can be caused by various conditions such as indigestion, pneumonia, or a panic attack, it is crucial to understand when it might indicate a heart attack.

Importance of Immediate Attention

Chest pain should never be ignored. If you experience severe chest pain accompanied by shortness of breath, sweating, or nausea, call 911 immediately. For milder chest pain, schedule an appointment with your doctor for a thorough evaluation. A physical exam, medical history, and detailed discussion of symptoms can help your provider determine if the pain is heart-related or due to another cause.

Chest Pain and Heart Attack Symptoms

Chest pain or discomfort is a primary symptom of a heart attack. This pain can manifest as pressure, squeezing, fullness, or aching in the center or left side of the chest. It may last for several minutes or come and go. Some people may experience only mild pain, akin to indigestion, or may not have chest pain at all.

Symptoms Vary Between Men and Women

While chest pain (angina) is the most common symptom in both men and women, women may also experience symptoms less commonly associated with heart attacks, such as shortness of breath, nausea/vomiting, and back or jaw pain.

Recognizing Heart Attack Warning Signs

Heart attack symptoms can vary greatly, and chest pain is just one possible indicator. Some individuals may experience jaw or back pain, shortness of breath, fatigue, or nausea instead of classic chest pain. Understanding these signs is crucial for timely medical intervention.

Descriptions of Heart Attack-Related Chest Pain

People describe heart attack-related chest pain in various ways, including:

• Severe pressure, as if an elephant is sitting on the chest
• Excessive squeezing
• Tightness across the chest
• Pain in the middle of the chest
• A sense of fullness
• A burning sensation
• Constant pain in the chest
• Radiating pain in the arm, back, neck, or jaw

Additional Heart Attack Symptoms

Heart attacks can present differently in men and women. Women are more likely to experience shortness of breath, nausea or vomiting, and back or jaw pain.

Heart Failure and Chest Pain

Heart failure can also cause chest pain and symptoms such as:

• Increased shortness of breath
• Pain, pinching, or weakness in one or both arms
• Pain or discomfort in the back, jaw, or neck
• Sudden nausea or vomiting
• Feeling lightheaded or dizzy
• Unusual fatigue
• Facial flushing or breaking out in a cold sweat

Angina

Angina, a symptom of underlying heart problems like coronary artery disease (CAD), often causes chest pain. While generally not immediately life-threatening, angina indicates that the heart is not getting enough oxygen-rich blood.

Communicating with Your Doctor

Describing your symptoms accurately helps your healthcare provider assess your heart risk profile. Key details to share include:

• The type of sensation (pain, pressure, tightness, etc.)
• The location of the discomfort
• When the pain began
• Whether the symptoms come and go
• Changes in the severity of the symptoms
• Any specific activities or conditions that trigger the symptoms

Seeking Immediate Medical Attention

If you experience a sudden increase in the number or severity of symptoms, contact your doctor immediately. If you suspect that you or someone you are with is having a heart attack, call 911 or your local emergency number right away to seek urgent medical help.