Chest pain is one of the most frightening symptoms a person can experience. The moment a sharp ache or tightness grips your chest, your mind immediately wonders: Am I having a heart attack?
Signs of a Heart Attack (Emergency)
A heart attack occurs when blood flow to the heart muscle is severely blocked. Seek immediate emergency care if your chest pain is accompanied by:
- Pressure, fullness, squeezing, or aching in the center of your chest.
- Pain that spreads to your jaw, neck, back, or one/both arms (especially the left arm).
- Shortness of breath, cold sweat, dizziness, or sudden lightheadedness.
- Nausea, indigestion, or abdominal pain.
Other Causes of Chest Pain
Not all chest pain is a heart attack. Other common causes include acid reflux, muscle strain, panic attacks, or respiratory conditions like pneumonia. However, you should never guess. An emergency ECG at MMI Hospital can accurately diagnose your heart function in minutes.
