Which of the following is a classic sign of myocardial infarction?

• A. Itchy ears.
• B. Sudden severe chest pain radiating to the left shoulder, neck and jaw.
• C. Rash.
• D. Dizziness.

Answer: (B)

The key idea is recognizing the typical symptom pattern of an acute myocardial infarction. A classic sign is sudden, severe chest pain described as pressure or squeezing, which often lasts more than a few minutes. This pain commonly spreads (radiates) to the left shoulder, neck, and jaw because the heart’s pain signals travel with nerves that also supply these areas. That radiating pattern is what makes it a hallmark of a heart attack.

Other options don’t fit this pattern. Itchy ears and a rash are not related to heart muscle ischemia, and while dizziness can occur during a heart event, it doesn’t constitute the classic radiating chest-pain presentation. Recognizing the chest pain with radiation is crucial for urgent assessment and management.