what is heart attack symptoms - #15913
I am really worried about my dad. He’s usually super active, but the other day he was just sitting on the couch, looking kinda pale. When I asked what’s wrong, he said he felt this pressure in his chest, but he brushed it off and said it was probably indigestion or something. I mean, he’s 65 and has some high blood pressure but doesn’t believe in seeing doctors for "small stuff." Then later, he joked that he was just tired, but I could tell something wasn’t right, y’know? I read some stuff online and now I'm freaking out because I keep seeing “what is heart attack symptoms” pop up everywhere. Are these just pressure feelings or other things too? I think he’s been kind of short of breath too, but I’m not really sure how to tell if that’s serious. Like, is there a way to know when it’s just something minor or if it could actually be serious? What if he’s ignoring things and it gets worse? There were times he would complain about his shoulder hurting but said it’s from lifting weights. Ugh, is there a connection? This whole “what is heart attack symptoms” thing is kinda stressing me out. I just want him to be healthy and not have to deal with worse issues because he didn’t take care of it soon enough. Can someone share the signs we should definitely not ignore?
100% Anonymously
No sign-up needed.

Doctors' responses
An important concern you raised about a potential heart attack involves recognizing key symptoms, especially in someone like your dad with high blood pressure and a history of ignoring potential signs. Heart attack symptoms can vary, but several common indicators should absolutely not be overlooked. Classic symptoms often include chest pain or discomfort. People often describe this as a pressure or tightness, as your dad did. It might also feel like an uncomfortable squeezing sensation or fullness. Such pain can last more than a few minutes, or go away and come back. It’s not unusual for the pain to radiate beyond the chest, often to the shoulders, neck, back, jaw, or arms, which might relate to your dad’s shoulder pain complaints. Shortness of breath is another symptom that can occur with or without the chest discomfort. Additionally, look for other signs, like cold sweats, nausea, or dizziness. Sometimes, particularly in older adults, symptoms can be more atypical or less severe than you’d expect. Since your dad is hesitant to see a doctor for ‘small stuff,’ it’s important for him to take these symptoms seriously rather than dismiss them as indigestion. Given his age and risk factors, these signs shouldn’t be ignored. Encourage him to seek prompt medical evaluation if such symptoms occur again. If they persist or worsen, he should seek emergency medical attention immediately, as prompt treatment can minimize heart muscle damage and save lives. Don’t wait if you’re in doubt; it’s better to evaluate a possible false alarm than to overlook a life-threatening condition.
100% Anonymously
Get expert answers anytime, completely confidential. No sign-up needed.
About our doctors
Only qualified doctors who have confirmed the availability of medical education and other certificates of medical practice consult on our service. You can check the qualification confirmation in the doctor's profile.