10 Metabolic Syndrome Symptoms
Symptom #5: Chest Pain
Patients with metabolic syndrome are at increased risk for coronary heart disease and heart attacks (myocardial infarction). As described above, this condition is associated with the formation of plaques (atherosclerosis) in arteries that supply blood to the heart (coronary arteries). These can partially or completely decrease the amount of blood and oxygen that reaches the heart, causing chest pain (angina) or a heart attack. Angina is a symptom of coronary artery disease and an important cause of chest pain. The sensation may be sudden or recur over time. It can be described as dull, heavy, squeezing, or sharp. Some associated symptoms may include radiation of pain to the jaw, nausea, upper abdomen, arm, and shoulder. Patients may also experience cold sweats, shortness of breath, and dizziness.
Sudden and severe chest pain is almost always considered a medical emergency as it has potentially life-threatening causes. However, chest pain can be divided into cardiac or non-cardiac causes. Patients with metabolic syndrome may experience chest pain due to their higher risk of cardiovascular disease.
