COPE Health Scholars Practice Test

What symptom may indicate myocardial infarction, particularly in women?

1. Pain in left arm or jaw

2. Redness in the face

3. Difficulty swallowing

4. Blurred vision

The correct answer is: Pain in left arm or jaw

The symptom that may indicate a myocardial infarction, especially in women, is pain in the left arm or jaw. This symptom is part of the classic presentation of a heart attack, where discomfort or pain can radiate to areas beyond the chest. While men may experience more typical symptoms such as chest pain, women often present with more atypical symptoms, which can include discomfort in the arms, back, neck, or jaw. This highlights the importance of recognizing these diverse presentations, as they can sometimes be subtle and easily overlooked, leading to delays in seeking necessary medical attention. In the context of the other options, redness in the face, difficulty swallowing, and blurred vision are not commonly associated with myocardial infarction. Redness can result from anxiety or other conditions, difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) often relates more to esophageal or neurological issues, and blurred vision may indicate other health problems but does not specifically point to a heart attack. Therefore, understanding the significance of symptoms such as pain in the left arm or jaw is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment.