Anomalous coronary origin means one of the heart’s own arteries starts from the wrong spot and can get pinched during exercise. Symptoms often show up in sporty kids or young adults and can strike without warning.

Chest pain is the headline. It feels like a heavy weight or tight band in the center of the chest and shows up with running, climbing stairs, or even brisk walking.

Shortness of breath tags along. You puff faster than friends or need to stop and bend over to catch your breath.

Heart racing or skipped beats are common. You feel a sudden thud, flutter, or notice your pulse is faster than normal.

Dizziness or light-headedness can pop up. You feel woozy, see spots, or nearly black out during activity.

Sudden fainting is the red flag. Collapse during or right after exercise is an emergency until proven otherwise.

Late signs include blue lips, cold sweat, or chest pain at rest—an alarm that the artery is severely squeezed.