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.
The same phrase in other languages
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.
