A heart attack, also called a myocardial infarction, is always serious. But, a heart attack may be considered "mild" when there isn't a complete blockage to the heart. In a mild heart attack, a partial blockage slows blood flow to the heart, but it isn't completely cut off. That can lead to different or perhaps milder symptoms of a heart attack. But, any heart attack symptoms should always be taken seriously and considered a medical emergency.
Chest Pain
Chest pain is always the first symptom you hear about when it comes to a heart attack, but the American Heart Association says that chest pain from a heart attack can be more subtle than many may think. People don't always drop to the floor in agony when they're having a heart attack. Your chest may feel heavy, like it's under pressure, or like someone is squeezing your chest. You may even just have a sensation of fullness in your chest. Chest pain from a mild heart attack may be constant, or come and go.
Difficulty Breathing
Having trouble catching your breath can be a big warning sign of a mild heart attack, says the AHA. If you feel short of breath, even without any other symptoms such as chest pain, it could be caused by a partial blockage and a mild heart attack.
Pain in the Body
A heart attack doesn't only cause pain in the chest. The AHA says that pain, or even just a little discomfort, in the arms, neck or back can indicate a heart attack. Mild heart attack symptoms may also appear as pain or discomfort in your jaw or even your stomach.
Dizziness and Nausea
Other subtle signs of a minor heart attack include a feeling of nausea, or feeling a little sick to your stomach, says the AHA. Some people may even vomit during a heart attack, says the Mayo Clinic. A sense of anxiety--almost like a panic attack-- is another warning sign of a mild heart attack, says the Mayo Clinic. It's common to feel lightheaded or dizzy when your heart isn't getting enough blood. Other people find themselves sweating and feeling chilled and clammy.
