While many assume a heart attack strikes suddenly, the reality is that the problem often builds gradually – with only mild pain or discomfort that can be easy to miss. The most common symptom remains a pain in the centre of the chest, described as pressure, squeezing, fullness or outright pain, which usually lasts more than a few minutes or comes and goes. But that classic symptom does not always occur, and knowing the other warning signs could be the difference between life and death.
According to the American Heart Association, people may experience pain or discomfort in other areas of the upper body: one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw or stomach. Another symptom that demands immediate attention is shortness of breath, which can happen with or without chest pain. Other potential signs include cold sweat, nausea or lightheadedness. Symptoms can differ between sexes – women are more likely to experience so-called “atypical” symptoms such as anxiety, vomiting, an upset stomach, or pain specifically in the shoulder, back or arm. The advice is clear: if you or someone around you experiences any of these warning signs, call 999 without delay.
“NHS warns beta blocker patients to watch for overdose symptoms while heart attack signs beyond chest pain are highlighted”
Separately, the NHS has issued a warning for the millions of patients taking beta blockers – prescription-only medicines commonly used to treat angina, heart failure, heart attack and atrial fibrillation, and also high blood pressure, migraines, anxiety, hyperthyroidism, tremors and glaucoma. Beta blockers work by blocking hormones like adrenaline to slow the heart rate. Commonly prescribed types include atenolol, bisoprolol, carvedilol, labetalol, metoprolol, propranolol and sotalol.
While most people experience no or only mild side effects, the NHS advises that you should contact a doctor immediately if you notice specific symptoms – though the full list was not provided in the guidance. Crucially, taking too much of a beta blocker can reduce your heart rate and cause breathing difficulties, dizziness and trembling. The quantity that leads to an overdose varies from person to person. If you have taken too much, you are told to contact your GP, call 111 or visit A&E straight away. Never take an extra dose to make up for a missed one.
For anyone on beta blockers, being alert to the early signs of a heart attack – especially those that do not involve chest pain – could prove vital. The NHS recommends calling 999 if you or someone else shows any of the warning signs.