What is the most common presenting symptom of a myocardial infarction?

Chest pain is recognized as the most common presenting symptom of a myocardial infarction (heart attack). This symptom typically manifests as a feeling of pressure, squeezing, fullness, or pain in the center or left side of the chest. Patients often describe it as intense and may feel as though something heavy is placed on their chest.

Understanding the sensation of chest pain is critical for early recognition of a myocardial infarction, as it signifies that the heart is not receiving adequate blood flow, often due to blockage in the coronary arteries. The timely identification of this symptom can lead to prompt medical intervention, significantly improving patient outcomes.

While shortness of breath, nausea, and dizziness can accompany a myocardial infarction, they are not as prevalent as chest pain. Many patients experiencing a heart attack report chest pain as their primary symptom, which can assist healthcare providers in making quick and accurate assessments when a patient presents with acute cardiac symptoms.