A heart attack, or myocardial infarction, occurs when a blood clot suddenly blocks blood flow to the heart, cutting off oxygen to the cardiac muscle. Without prompt treatment, the damage can be permanent — or fatal. Yet most heart attacks are preceded by warning signs that, if recognized in time, can make the difference between life and death.
In brief
- —Chest pain is the most classic symptom, but not the only one
- —Women often experience subtler signs — fatigue, nausea, jaw pain
- —Call emergency services immediately; never drive yourself to hospital
Chest pain, breathlessness and radiating discomfort: the three most recognized signals
The most well-known symptom remains chest pain or discomfort — a sensation of pressure, tightness, squeezing or burning felt in the center or left side of the chest. It may last several minutes or come and go in waves. Crucially, the pain does not have to be severe: even mild discomfort warrants attention.
