A heart attack occurs when blood flow to the heart is severely reduced or blocked, usually due to a buildup of fatty deposits in the arteries. This can damage heart muscle. While chest pain is a widely recognized symptom, heart attack symptoms can vary among individuals and may include discomfort that spreads to other areas, such as the shoulder.
Characteristics of Heart Attack-Related Shoulder Pain
Shoulder pain linked to a heart attack has specific qualities. This discomfort may be felt in the left shoulder, arm, or jaw, but can also affect the right shoulder, back, or chest. It often comes on gradually and can persist for several minutes, or it may come and go. The pain is usually not relieved by rest or common over-the-counter pain relievers.
Shoulder pain rarely occurs in isolation during a heart attack and is often accompanied by other indicators. These include chest pain or discomfort, which may feel like pressure, tightness, or fullness. Other signs might involve shortness of breath, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, lightheadedness, a cold sweat, or unusual fatigue. Women and individuals with diabetes might experience more subtle or atypical symptoms, such as extreme fatigue, back pain, or jaw pain.
Differentiating Heart Attack Pain from Other Shoulder Pain
To distinguish heart attack-related shoulder pain from other common causes, such as muscle strain, arthritis, or rotator cuff injury, consider several factors. Musculoskeletal pain often worsens with movement, pressure, or changes in body position; for instance, rotator cuff injuries typically cause pain when raising the arm. In contrast, heart attack-related shoulder pain usually does not intensify with movement and is generally persistent.
Musculoskeletal pain is typically localized to a joint or muscle, and a specific area might feel tender to the touch. Heart attack pain, however, tends to radiate or spread from the chest to the shoulder, arm, back, neck, or jaw, indicating a broader area of discomfort. The quality of pain also differs: musculoskeletal issues often result in sharp, stabbing, or aching pain, while heart attack pain is more frequently described as a dull ache, pressure, or squeezing sensation.
The presence of other symptoms is a key differentiator. Common shoulder injuries usually do not involve symptoms like shortness of breath, sweating, or generalized chest discomfort. If shoulder pain occurs alongside these additional signs, particularly chest pressure, shortness of breath, nausea, or sweating, it raises concern for a heart-related issue. Shoulder pain alone is typically not a sign of a heart attack.
When to Seek Emergency Medical Attention
If you suspect heart attack-related shoulder pain, immediate medical attention is essential. Call 911 or your local emergency services number without delay. It is not advisable to drive yourself or have someone else drive you to the hospital if you are experiencing symptoms of a heart attack, as emergency responders can begin initial assessments and treatment on the way to the medical facility.
Do not dismiss symptoms, even if they appear mild, subtle, or atypical. This is especially important for individuals with existing risk factors for heart disease, such as a family history of heart conditions, high blood pressure, or diabetes. Waiting can have serious consequences, as early intervention is crucial for minimizing heart muscle damage and improving overall outcomes.
Recognizing and acting quickly on warning signs can significantly impact the chances of recovery. The sooner treatment is administered to restore blood flow to the heart, the better the potential for survival and reduced long-term complications. If you experience unexplained shoulder pain accompanied by other concerning symptoms, seeking prompt emergency medical evaluation is the most appropriate course of action.