Definition: Prolonged lack of blood supply to heart muscle → tissue damage
Classic symptoms:
– Severe, crushing chest pain or pressure
– Pain radiating to left arm, jaw, neck, or back
– Shortness of breath
– Cold sweats
– Nausea or vomiting
Atypical symptoms (common in elderly, women, diabetics):
– Fatigue, weakness
-Indigestion-like discomfort
– Dizziness or fainting
Key difference from angina:
– Pain lasts >15–20 minutes
– Not relieved by rest or nitroglycerin