Myocardial infarction (MI), commonly referred to as a heart attack, occurs when there is blockage of blood flow to the heart muscles.

It is a serious medical condition that requires immediate treatment as it can lead to irreversible damage or even death. The key to preventing complications is recognizing the symptoms early and seeking medical attention.

Chest Pain or Discomfort

Chest pain or discomfort is the most common symptom of myocardial infarction. The pain is usually described as a feeling of pressure, squeezing, or fullness.

The pain may also radiate to other parts of the body such as the arms, jaw, neck, back, or stomach. It can be sudden or gradual, and may last for a few minutes or longer.

Shortness of Breath

In addition to chest pain, shortness of breath is another common symptom of myocardial infarction. The person may feel out of breath even when resting, or have difficulty catching their breath after exertion.

Sometimes the person may even wake up at night feeling breathless.

Nausea or Vomiting

Nausea or vomiting may also be present during a heart attack. The person may feel sick to their stomach, or have a general feeling of unease.

If the person experiences vomiting that is not related to eating or drinking, it could be a sign of a heart attack.

Sweating

Sweating is another symptom that may be present during a myocardial infarction. The person may break out in a cold sweat, or feel clammy and sweaty despite not having exerted themselves.

Feeling Fatigued or Weak

Feeling fatigued or weak may also be a sign of a heart attack. The person may feel tired and have difficulty carrying out certain activities that they could do before with ease. This symptom is particularly common in women.

Dizziness or Lightheadedness

Dizziness or lightheadedness can occur during a heart attack. The person may feel like they are about to faint, or even lose consciousness. This symptom can be particularly dangerous if it occurs while the person is driving or operating heavy machinery.

Irregular Heartbeats

Irregular heartbeats, also known as arrhythmias, can occur during a heart attack. The person may feel like their heart is skipping a beat, or racing uncontrollably.

This symptom can also be accompanied by palpitations, or the feeling of a rapid or fluttering heartbeat.

Discomfort in the Jaw, Neck, Back or Stomach

Pain or discomfort in the jaw, neck, back, or stomach can also be a sign of a heart attack. The pain may be accompanied by a feeling of pressure or tightness in the chest.

This symptom is more common in women and can often be mistaken for indigestion or muscle pain.

Difficulty Sleeping

Difficulty sleeping may also be a symptom of a heart attack. The person may experience insomnia, wake up frequently during the night, or have difficulty falling asleep. This symptom is more common in women.

Confusion or Anxiety

Confusion or anxiety can also be present during a heart attack. The person may feel like they are in a fog, or have difficulty making decisions. They may also feel anxious or restless.

If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately. Do not ignore or dismiss the symptoms, as early treatment can prevent complications and save your life.

Remember that not everyone experiences all the symptoms, and some people may only have mild symptoms or none at all.