What it feels like: Pain, numbness, tingling, or aching that radiates to one or both arms (especially the left), the jaw, neck, back, or shoulders. This pain may come and go.
Why it happens: The nerves that serve the heart also serve these other areas. When the brain receives a pain signal from the heart, it can sometimes misinterpret where the pain is coming from.
What to Do If You Experience These Symptoms
Don’t Ignore Them: Your body is sending a signal. The worst thing you can do is write it off as stress, aging, or indigestion.
See a Doctor Immediately: Schedule an appointment with your primary care physician or a cardiologist. Describe all your symptoms in detail, including when they started and what makes them better or worse.
Call Emergency Services (911 or your local number) if:
You experience chest pain or pressure that lasts more than a few minutes.
Pain radiates to your shoulder, arm, back, neck, or jaw.
You have shortness of breath combined with chest discomfort.
You break out in a cold sweat, feel nauseated, lightheaded, or faint.
Do not drive yourself to the hospital.
A Simple Table: Symptoms at a Glance
Symptom What It Might Feel Like Important Note
Fatigue Overwhelming exhaustion from simple tasks Different from normal tiredness.
Shortness of Breath Getting winded easily, without exertion A key sign of heart stress.
Chest Discomfort Pressure, squeezing, fullness, or ache Not always sharp pain.
Anxiety/Sleep Issues Feeling of doom, restlessness, waking up breathless Often overlooked as stress.
