Final answer:
A myocardial infarction (MI) generally causes acute pain described as angina pectoris beneath the sternum, which can radiate down the left arm in males. Associated symptoms include shortness of breath, irregular heartbeat, and sweating, among others. Diagnostic tests are critical for confirming an MI due to the similarities of symptoms with other health conditions.
Step-by-step explanation:
Patients experiencing a myocardial infarction (MI), commonly known as a heart attack, often describe the pain as sudden and severe beneath the sternum, a type of angina pectoris. This pain may radiate down the left arm, particularly in males. However, it is worth noting that female patients do not always report this classic symptom, which has led to misdiagnoses in the past. Accompanying symptoms can include difficulty breathing or shortness of breath (dyspnea), irregular heartbeat (palpitations), nausea and vomiting, sweating (diaphoresis), anxiety, and fainting (syncope).
Angina pectoris is chest pain that occurs from the partial blockage of coronary arteries leading to a lack of oxygen for the heart muscle. Additionally, referred pain may be observed, where the pain is perceived in different body areas, such as the shoulders or back. Differential diagnosis is essential due to the overlap of symptoms with other conditions like anxiety attacks or indigestion. Finally, diagnostic tests such as ECG changes, echocardiography, or blood tests for markers like creatine kinase MB and cardiac troponin are vital for confirming an MI.