Which symptom could indicate a potential acute coronary syndrome?

Chest discomfort radiating to the arm is a classic symptom of acute coronary syndrome (ACS). This condition encompasses a range of heart issues, including unstable angina and myocardial infarction (heart attack). The discomfort is often described as pressure, squeezing, or pain, and it can frequently be experienced in areas beyond the chest, including the left arm, neck, jaw, and back. This phenomenon occurs due to the heart muscle not receiving enough oxygen, leading to referred pain in these areas. Recognizing this symptom is crucial because it signals a possible serious cardiac event that requires immediate medical attention.

While severe headache, sudden nausea, and fever with chills are concerning symptoms, they are generally associated with other conditions and not directly indicative of ACS. Severe headaches might suggest conditions like migraines or hypertension, sudden nausea can be attributed to gastrointestinal issues or anxiety, and fever with chills might indicate an infection.