Published: February 25, 2011
Updated: 02/25/2011 12:29 pm
BROOKSVILLE – the chest pain associated with cardiac disease and blockages in the heart arteries is known as angina. We are all individuals and our sensations of pain, particularly visceral pain like that from a heart attack can be quite varied.
Every individual’s angina is unique to that person. with that being said, there are some commonalities in presentation that bear repeating. if you experience these you should be aware that they are associated with the warning signs and symptoms of a possible heart attack.
•Chest discomfort: it may not always be the classic “an elephant is sitting on my chest.” Women and diabetics may present with very different complaints of chest discomfort; severe indigestion that will not resolve, sharp pains, squeezing pains or just heavy, dull ache or pressure.
Shortness of breath: the chest discomfort may be accompanied by an inability to catch your breath. you may only have the sensation of shortness of breath without any other symptom.
Radiation of pain: the chest discomfort may radiate into the shoulder or arm (particularly the left), jaw or back.
Nausea, sweating or lightheadedness: These may or may not accompany the other symptoms.
Intermittent symptoms: any of the above symptoms may wax and wane. if they are particularly aggravated by any exertion and relieved with rest they suggest a cardiac origin.
Palpitations: you may notice a rapid heart rate or “skipped beats.”
If you have these, you should get checked out by your physician or local emergency room-especially if you have any cardiac risk factors. Remember, time is heart muscle!
Michael S. Fenster, MD, an Interventional Cardiologist with Hernando Heart Clinic, is also a Chef and host of What’s Cooking with Dr. Mike: the Grassroots Gourmet. Visit his website at whatscookingwithdoc.com