Symptom 4: Radiating Discomfort: An Expanding Circle of Distress
The body, in its quest to alert us of a potential heart attack, can sometimes generate discomfort in regions other than the chest. This can be in the form of pain or discomfort that extends to one or both arms, the back, shoulders, neck, or upper part of the stomach (above the belly button).
It can start as a dull ache or a sharp stab, appearing out of nowhere and persisting despite resting. For some, it may feel like a heavy pressure or squeezing sensation, akin to a vice grip tightening around the affected area. This discomfort can be continuous or intermittent, often causing confusion due to its location.
Women are more likely than men to experience these non-chest discomfort symptoms. This dispersion of discomfort is attributed to the heart’s complex network of nerves. When the heart muscle starts to suffer from a lack of oxygen, the distress signal can get transferred along the nerves, producing discomfort in areas distant from the actual source.
Understanding the possibility of this radiating discomfort can help in timely recognition of a heart attack. It’s essential to note that everyone experiences heart attacks differently. Some people may have only minor discomfort, while others may experience more severe pain. (4)
