What symptoms indicate a heart attack?

Chest pain and shortness of breath are classic symptoms of a heart attack, also known as a myocardial infarction. The chest pain often manifests as a feeling of pressure, squeezing, or fullness in the center or left side of the chest. This discomfort may last for several minutes or come and go. Shortness of breath can accompany chest pain or may occur without it. These symptoms arise due to a blockage of blood flow to the heart, depriving the heart muscle of oxygen. Recognizing these warning signs is crucial for timely medical intervention, which can significantly improve outcomes during a heart attack.

The other options present symptoms that are not associated with a heart attack. Nausea and fever are more indicative of infections or gastrointestinal issues. Fatigue and headache can occur for a variety of reasons not related to cardiac events. Coughing and sneezing are symptoms that correspond with respiratory conditions or allergies, which are unrelated to heart function. Understanding the specific symptoms of a heart attack is essential for providing effective first aid and ensuring rapid medical response.