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Symptoms
By Mayo Clinic staffMany acute coronary syndrome symptoms are the same as those of a heart attack. And if acute coronary syndrome isn't treated quickly, a heart attack will occur. It's important to take acute coronary syndrome symptoms very seriously. Get medical help right away if you have these signs and symptoms and think you're having a heart attack:
- Chest pain (angina) that feels like burning, pressure or tightness and lasts several minutes or longer, which may occur with exercise, emotional stress or eating a large meal.
- Pain elsewhere in the body, such as the upper arm or jaw (referred pain).
- Nausea.
- Vomiting.
- Shortness of breath (dyspnea).
- Sudden, heavy sweating (diaphoresis).
- Lightheadedness.
If you're having a heart attack, the signs and symptoms may vary for women. Women's heart attack symptoms usually include:
- Abdominal pain or pains similar to heartburn
- Clammy skin
- Lightheadedness or dizziness
- Unusual or unexplained fatigue
When to see a doctor
If you're having chest pain and you believe it's an emergency situation, seek medical help immediately. Whenever possible, get emergency medical assistance rather than driving yourself to the hospital. You could be having a heart attack.
If you have recurring chest pain, talk to your doctor. It could be a form of angina, and your doctor can help you decide the best course of treatment.
- Acute coronary syndrome. American Heart Association. http://www.americanheart.org/presenter.jhtml?identifier=3010002. Accessed Feb. 7, 2008.
- Achar SA, et al. Diagnosis of acute coronary syndrome. American Family Physician. 2005;72(1):119-126.
- Acute coronary syndromes: A national clinical guideline. National Guideline Clearinghouse. http://www.guideline.gov/summary/summary.aspx?doc_id=10585. Accessed Nov. 7, 2007.
- Rackley CE, et al. The role of plaque ruptures in acute coronary syndromes. http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed Jan. 18, 2008.
- Ryan TJ, et al. Management of suspected acute coronary syndrome in the emergency department. http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed Jan. 18, 2008.
- Rosenson RS. Cholesterol lowering after an acute coronary syndrome. http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed Jan. 18, 2008.
