What are the common signs of a myocardial infarction (heart attack)?

The common signs of a myocardial infarction, or heart attack, include chest pain and shortness of breath, which are two of the hallmark symptoms. Chest pain typically manifests as a feeling of pressure, squeezing, or fullness in the center or left side of the chest. This discomfort can radiate to the shoulders, neck, arms, back, teeth, or jaw, which is crucial to recognize. Shortness of breath may accompany the chest pain or occur independently, especially in women and elderly patients. Understanding these signs is critical for prompt recognition and treatment, which can significantly improve outcomes for individuals experiencing a heart attack.

The other options involve symptoms associated with different medical conditions. For instance, facial drooping and slurred speech point more toward a stroke rather than a heart attack. Severe headache and nausea can be indicative of several issues, including migraines or gastrointestinal problems, while lightheadedness and fever are not specific to myocardial infarction and are typically associated with other illnesses.