Heart attacks typically result from a blockage in the coronary arteries, which reduces or stops blood flow to the heart muscle. This causes chest pain or pressure — a sensation many describe as tightness, squeezing, or heaviness in the center of the chest.
However, this pain does not always remain confined to the chest. It can radiate to other parts of the upper body, including the arms, jaw, neck, back, and even the stomach. This type of referred pain occurs because of the way the body's nerve pathways are interconnected. The brain can sometimes interpret the pain signals from the heart as coming from other areas, such as the left arm or jaw.
Atypical Symptoms in Women
Women often experience different heart attack symptoms compared to men. While chest pain is still common, women are more likely to report atypical symptoms, including:
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Jaw pain
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Shortness of breath
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Extreme fatigue
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Nausea or vomiting
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Lightheadedness
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Indigestion or discomfort in the upper abdomen
These symptoms may be subtle and are sometimes mistaken for less serious conditions, such as acid reflux, anxiety, or the flu. As a result, heart attacks in women can go unrecognized or be diagnosed later, which can delay critical treatment.
Other Common Symptoms of a Heart Attack
In addition to chest discomfort and referred pain in the jaw or arm, heart attacks may also present with:
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Shortness of breath
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Cold sweats
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Dizziness or fainting
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Nausea or vomiting
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Unusual fatigue
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A sense of impending doom or anxiety
These symptoms can vary in intensity and duration. Some heart attacks occur suddenly and with severe symptoms, while others develop more gradually.
Why It’s Important to Recognize the Symptoms Early
Recognizing the early signs of a heart attack can be life-saving. When blood flow to the heart is interrupted, every minute counts. Prompt medical intervention can reduce damage to the heart muscle and improve the chances of survival.
If you or someone you know experiences symptoms that may indicate a heart attack — particularly chest pain accompanied by jaw or arm pain — it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention. Do not wait to see if the symptoms go away. Call emergency services or go to the nearest emergency room right away.
Other Possible Causes of Jaw Pain
It is important to remember that not all jaw or arm pain is heart-related. Several other conditions can cause similar discomfort, such as:
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Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) disorders
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Dental issues like tooth infections or abscesses
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Trigeminal neuralgia
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Sinus infections
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Muscle strain or tension
However, if the pain is new, unusual, persistent, or associated with other symptoms like chest discomfort or shortness of breath, it is better to err on the side of caution and rule out a cardiac cause.
When to Seek Immediate Medical Help
You should call emergency services right away if you experience:
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Chest pain or discomfort that lasts more than a few minutes
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Pain or pressure that radiates to the jaw, arm, neck, or back
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Sudden shortness of breath
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Cold sweats or lightheadedness
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Nausea, fatigue, or a general feeling of being unwell
Even if you are unsure whether it’s a heart attack, it is always safer to get evaluated by a medical professional.
Jaw or arm pain can be much more than just a dental issue or muscle strain. In some cases, it can be a critical early warning sign of a heart attack. Understanding and recognizing the broader spectrum of heart attack symptoms — especially the less typical ones — can make a significant difference in how quickly a person receives help.
If you experience unexplained jaw or arm pain, especially if it comes with chest pain, fatigue, or shortness of breath, don’t delay. Seek medical attention immediately.
For Enquiries: cardiologysupport@
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