Identifying the warning signs of myocardial infarction
Every year, around 100,000 people in France suffer a myocardial infarction. This cardiovascular event can occur at any age, in both men and women. Recognising the signs early allows you to act without delay, improving treatment.
Myocardial infarction, also known as acute coronary syndrome or “heart attack”, occurs when blood flow to your heart is partially or fully reduced, preventing the heart from receiving oxygen. It is most often caused by a blood clot blocking a coronary artery and follows the rupture of an atherosclerotic plaque (fatty deposit) in the artery.
What are the symptoms?
In men, the most common sign is a sudden, stabbing pain in the centre of the chest, which may radiate to the left arm or jaw.
In women, the symptoms may be different, and sometimes, less obvious. They are often multiple and may precede or occur alongside chest pain:
- Unusual tiredness or exhaustion,
- Shortness of breath during exertion,
- Sudden chest tightness,
- Sharp pain in the upper back, neck or between the shoulder blades,
- Palpitations,
- Cold sweat,
- Recurrent digestive problems (nausea, heartburn, abdominal discomfort, etc.).
These symptoms should be cause for concern in the presence of risk factors such as high cholesterol, smoking, heredity, high blood pressure, diabetes, significant mental stress, etc.
If in doubt:
Immediately call 15 (or 112, the European emergency number). Prompt intervention, ideally within two hours, can help avoid complications and optimise recovery.
It is important to note that the perception of symptoms can vary according to the gender. Certain types of pain are sometimes played down, particularly in women. Paying attention to these signs, even if they seem light or infrequent, will allow you to react more quickly.