A guide to saying it like a local
How to Say "I'm having a heart attack" in Spanish
Urgent Spanish phrase for a medical emergency: 'I'm having a heart attack!'
¡Me está dando un infarto!
meh eh-STAH DAHN-doh oon een-FAR-tohneutral
Spanish TTS · 0:01
Use this when you are experiencing severe chest pain and suspect you are having a heart attack. This is a critical phrase to get immediate medical help.
Alternatives
- ¡Tengo un infarto!Slightly more direct and emphasizes possession of the condition.
- ¡Creo que me da un infarto!Use if you're not entirely sure but strongly suspect it.
Ways to get it wrong
Confusing 'infarto' with 'informe'
'Infarto' means heart attack; 'informe' means report.
Using 'ataque de corazón'
While understandable, 'infarto' is the more common and precise medical term.
A small cultural note
In many Spanish-speaking countries, 'infarto' is the standard medical term for a heart attack. It's a serious medical emergency, so speak clearly and loudly.
Frequently asked
What is the difference between infarto and ataque al corazón?
'Infarto' is the more common and medically precise term for a heart attack. 'Ataque al corazón' is also understood but less frequently used in a medical context.
How to say 'I need an ambulance' in Spanish?
You can say '¡Necesito una ambulancia!' This is a crucial phrase to accompany your emergency announcement.
What if I don't speak Spanish well during an emergency?
Even a few key phrases like this one can convey the urgency. Point to your chest and try to get someone's attention to call for help.
