If the blood clot grows to completely block the artery, it can cause a heart attack. Anyone experiencing angina at rest should seek prompt medical attention. Medications are available to help prevent blood clots from completely blocking the coronary artery and causing a heart attack. Although a heart attack is classically associated with severe pain across the chest, many people feel only a tightness or squeezing sensation in the chest. The discomfort of a heart attack may be confined to the arm, upper back, neck, or jaw.
Some people only experience a feeling of indigestion, nausea, shortness of breath, or sweating.
The discomfort associated with a heart attack usually lasts several hours. Anyone experiencing symptoms associated with a heart attack that last more than 15 to 30 minutes requires immediate medical attention . Medications and treatments can dissolve the blood clot and restore blood flow to the heart. The sooner these are administered, the more heart muscle can be saved. Pericarditis pains can be sharp or dull and can last days.