The notion that chest pain is the only warning sign of an impending heart attack is a common misconception. While chest pain is indeed a prevalent symptom, it’s crucial to recognise that not all chest pains signal a heart attack, and conversely, not all heart attacks present with chest pain.

Heart Attack: A Complex Condition

A heart attack, or myocardial infarction, occurs when the blood supply to a portion of the heart muscle is blocked, causing damage or death of the affected area. According to medical experts, approximately two-thirds of patients who experience a heart attack report chest pain as a symptom. However, this statistic also implies that one-third of heart attack patients may not exhibit chest pain at all.

Chest Pain: Not Always a Heart Attack

Of the patients who visit emergency departments with chest pain, only about 5.1 per cent are diagnosed with a heart attack. This staggering difference highlights the importance of thorough evaluation and diagnosis. Chest pain can stem from various non-cardiac causes, such as musculoskeletal issues, respiratory problems, or gastrointestinal concerns.