Signs and Symptoms of Acute Coronary Syndrome

December 1, 2023 | 3 min read

Symptoms of coronary artery disease can vary. While some people may exhibit no symptoms, which is common in the initial phases of the disease, others might experience chest pain or chest pressure, or even encounter a heart attack as their first indication of blockages in the heart’s arteries.

The most common symptom of reduced blood flow to the heart is chest pain or discomfort, also termed angina. This sensation arises when the heart receives an insufficient supply of oxygen or blood. It is characterized by feelings of pain, pressure, squeezing, or fullness in the chest. However, these sensations might be very subtle.

Such discomfort in the chest can be triggered by physical exertion or intense emotions but often dissipates with adequate rest. You may also experience a sense of breathlessness, weakness, or an unusual level of fatigue.

Severe narrowing or blockage of an artery can lead to a heart attack. This happens when plaque ruptures within the artery, leading to the formation of a clot to heal the injury.

Knowing when to seek help is crucial. If you think you are having a heart attack, it’s imperative to seek emergency assistance. If you are enrolled in the Lyfe program, you can use the app to request an ambulance.

Heart Attack Symptoms

Chest pain or discomfort is the most common symptom of a heart attack for both men and women. But women are more likely than men to have additional symptoms, such as nausea and shortness of breath.

Chest Pain Can Feel Like Other Symptoms Include
  • Chest pressure, tightness, squeezing or burning
  • Discomfort in your chest, shoulders, arms, back, neck, or jaw
  • Pain that travels down one or both arms
  • Shortness of breath
  • Unusual or extreme tiredness
  • Feeling dizzy or lightheaded
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Cold sweat
  • Anxiety