What is a common symptom associated with acute coronary syndrome?

Acute coronary syndrome (ACS) encompasses conditions like unstable angina and myocardial infarction, which are primarily characterized by the sudden reduction of blood flow to the heart muscle. A hallmark symptom of ACS is chest pain, often described as a pressure, squeezing, or aching sensation in the chest. This pain may also radiate to other areas such as the arms, jaw, back, or neck.

Shortness of breath is frequently experienced by patients with ACS due to the heart's impaired ability to pump effectively, leading to pulmonary congestion and insufficient oxygenation. The combination of chest pain and shortness of breath is particularly indicative of the distress caused by reduced blood supply to the heart and is commonly reported by patients experiencing an acute coronary event.

While other symptoms, such as nausea and vomiting, palpitations, and fatigue may occur in relation to ACS, they are generally considered secondary or less characteristic compared to the primary symptoms of chest pain and shortness of breath. This makes the combination of these two symptoms the most recognized and typical manifestation of acute coronary syndrome.