Final answer:
A heart attack's symptoms mostly include chest pain or discomfort (angina), and may spread to various parts of the upper body. Additional symptoms can be shortness of breath, weakness, sweating, and nausea, which may present differently in women. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical due to the similarity of symptoms to other conditions. Option 1.
Step-by-step explanation:
The symptoms of a heart attack, also known as a myocardial infarction (MI), can vary but generally include several key signs. One of the primary symptoms is angina, which is chest pain or discomfort that presents as a feeling of pressure, squeezing, fullness, or pain in the center or left side of the chest. This pain or discomfort can spread to the arms, shoulders, neck, jaw, or back and is often accompanied by shortness of breath. Additionally, symptoms like weakness, lightheadedness, cold sweats (diaphoresis), and nausea or vomiting are also common. It's important to recognize that symptoms can differ in women, with some experiencing more nausea or feeling faint. Option 1.
A heart attack occurs when blood flow to the heart is significantly reduced or stopped, leading to the death of heart muscle cells due to lack of oxygen. This can be caused by a complete blockage of a coronary artery, often from a blood clot or plaque rupture. Not all heart attacks cause symptoms, and sometimes people may have a 'silent' myocardial infarction. Because signs of a heart attack can also be similar to other conditions, like indigestion or an anxiety attack, it is essential for a differential diagnosis to be made by medical professionals.