What is a common symptom of a heart attack?

Pain or pressure in the centre of the chest is a classic symptom of a heart attack. This symptom can manifest as a sensation of discomfort, a squeezing, fullness, or sharp pain. It may come and go or persist, and it can also radiate to other areas of the body, such as the arms, back, neck, jaw, or stomach. The chest pain is often described as severe and is typically associated with anxiety, shortness of breath, sweating, or other distressing symptoms. Recognizing this key indicator is vital for prompt medical intervention, which can be lifesaving in the event of a heart attack.

Other symptoms, such as pain in the lower back, severe headache, or high fever, are not characteristic of a heart attack. While back pain can occur in some individuals, it is not specific to cardiac events and can be caused by numerous other conditions. Similarly, headaches and high fevers do not correlate with heart attack symptoms and may indicate other medical issues. Thus, understanding the hallmark signs, particularly chest pain or pressure, is critical for effectively identifying and responding to a heart attack.