Can Pain Between the Shoulder Blades Signal a Heart Attack?

By Staff WriterLast Updated December 04, 2023

Pain between the shoulder blades can signal a heart attack, according to Everyday Health. Men and women may experience the pain weeks in advance of suffering a heart attack, especially during exertion, such as climbing a flight of stairs. It is a symptom less common than chest pain.

Angina occurs when the heart does not receive sufficient blood flow temporarily. People suffering from angina may experience breathlessness and pain or discomfort between their shoulder blades. The symptoms are warning signs to seek medical attention immediately, explains Everyday Health. Other less-common symptoms of an impending heart attack are back and jaw pain, unusual tiredness, elbow and tooth pain, and a feeling of foreboding.