Warning Signs of a Heart Attack

According to the World Health Organization, ischaemic heart disease tops the list as the leading cause of death globally. In 2019 alone, cardiovascular diseases claimed the lives of 8.9 million people. It’s an alarming statistic that underscores the importance of recognizing early warning signs of a heart attack.

Symptoms to Look Out For

As research highlights, many people experience warning signals, known as prodromal symptoms, days or even months prior to a heart attack.

Unfortunately, these symptoms are often dismissed by both patients and healthcare providers. Recognizing these symptoms can make a significant difference in getting timely medical intervention.

The National Library of Medicine points out that common prodromal symptoms may include chest pain, heaviness or burning, palpitations, fatigue, sleep disturbances, shortness of breath (SOB), dizziness, anxiety, sudden changes in temperature, back pain, and vomiting.

Recognizing the Signs

1. Fatigue

Feeling exceptionally tired or lacking energy to carry out everyday tasks may indicate fatigue, which can be linked to decreased blood flow to the heart due to narrowed arteries. If unexplained fatigue persists, it could be signaling potential heart issues.

2. Shortness of Breath

Shortness of breath occurs when the lungs aren’t receiving enough oxygen to support the body’s needs. If you or someone you know is experiencing this symptom, it’s wise to consult a doctor as it could be an early warning of an impending heart attack.

As mentioned by WebMD, both shortness of breath and unusual tiredness can be indicators of heart failure, which denotes the heart’s reduced ability to effectively circulate blood.

3. Weakness

Sudden and unexplained weakness can be your body’s way of signaling the need to slow down and reassess your health habits. This feeling might suggest an underlying heart condition.

4. Dizziness and Cold Sweats

Dizziness and cold sweats are symptomatic of poor circulation, an issue that should not be overlooked. These symptoms may arise without any clear reason and often accompany heart-related problems.

5. Flu or Cold-like Symptoms

Many individuals who’ve suffered a heart attack report experiencing symptoms similar to those of the flu shortly before the event. If you notice such symptoms alongside others on this list, it’s important to pay attention.

6. Chest Pressure

Chest pressure is one of the most recognized signs of a heart attack. This pressure often builds up gradually until the heart attack occurs. It’s critical to seek medical help if you experience ongoing chest discomfort.

7. Swollen Feet

If one or both of your heart’s lower chambers struggle to pump blood efficiently, it could result in blood backing up into your legs, ankles, and feet, leading to swelling, known as edema. This condition is often associated with heart failure.

Learn More About Heart Attack Symptoms

If you’re interested in learning more about heart attack symptoms and related information, watch the video below where Dr. Travis Stork discusses heart attack signs.