Acute coronary syndrome

Acute coronary syndrome is a term used to describe a range of conditions associated with sudden, reduced blood flow to the heart.

One such condition is a heart attack (myocardial infarction) — when cell death results in damaged or destroyed heart tissue. Even when acute coronary syndrome causes no cell death, the reduced blood flow changes how your heart works and is a sign of a high risk of heart attack.

Acute coronary syndrome often causes severe chest pain or discomfort. It is a medical emergency that requires prompt diagnosis and care. The goals of treatment include improving blood flow, treating complications and preventing future problems.

Symptoms

The signs and symptoms of acute coronary syndrome usually begin abruptly. They include:

• Chest pain (angina) or discomfort, often described as aching, pressure, tightness or burning
• Pain spreading from the chest to the shoulders, arms, upper abdomen, back, neck or jaw
• Nausea or vomiting
• Indigestion
• Shortness of breath (dyspnea)
• Sudden, heavy sweating (diaphoresis)
• Lightheadedness, dizziness or fainting
• Unusual or unexplained fatigue
• Feeling restless or apprehensive

Chest pain or discomfort is the most common symptom. However, signs and symptoms may vary significantly depending on your age, sex and other medical conditions. You're more likely to have signs and symptoms without chest pain or discomfort if you're a woman, older adult or have diabetes.