What are common signs and symptoms of acute coronary syndrome?

Acute coronary syndrome (ACS) encompasses a range of conditions related to sudden, reduced blood flow to the heart, which can result in a heart attack or unstable angina. The most common signs and symptoms associated with ACS are chest pain, shortness of breath, and diaphoresis.

Chest pain is often described as a pressure, squeezing, fullness, or pain in the center or left side of the chest that may last for more than a few minutes or go away and return. This is typically related to the heart muscle not getting enough oxygen due to blocked blood vessels. Shortness of breath may occur with or without chest pain and indicates that the heart is struggling to maintain adequate blood circulation. Diaphoresis, or sweating, is also common in these situations, as the body responds to stress and pain, and this can signal the body’s response to the potential heart issue.

The other options list symptoms that are not associated with acute coronary syndrome. Headaches, nausea, and fatigue could be symptoms of other ailments but do not specifically indicate ACS. Coughing, fever, and chills are more closely associated with respiratory infections or illnesses rather than cardiac events. Abdominal pain, dizziness, and diarrhea can stem from various gastrointestinal issues, differing greatly