The classic early heart attack symptoms include crushing or heaviness of the heart. However, most cases of heart attacks are subtle and silent. Sometimes it’s hard to detect if one is having a heart attack or not. Therefore, understanding the early signs of heart attack can save your life and prevent any further complications. Some of the common red flags include:
1. Chest Discomfort
Chest pain is the common heart attack symptom and it occurs differently in everyone. Some people describe the pain as a pinching, burning sensation or chest compression similar to a heavy object sitting on your chest. This feeling may occur at any time whether engaging in strenuous activity or lying down.
Chest discomfort can last for a few minutes. However, if the pain persists for more than five minutes you need to call 911 or visit an emergency room in Waco.
Although at times the discomfort may not be caused by a heart attack, you still need to have it assessed by a doctor. Also, keep in mind, women may have a heart attack without chest discomfort. It is, therefore, crucial to pay attention to other heart attack symptoms.
2. Shortness of Breath
Breathing and blood pumping are closely related. The heart pumps blood to and from the lungs to supply the body tissue with oxygen. If there is a blockage in the heart chambers, as is the case of a heart attack, the lungs may not get the necessary oxygen required to breathe.
In the early stages of heart problems, you may experience shortness of breath when performing strenuous activities such as exercises. When you notice constant shortness of breath, you need to seek urgent care near you as it may be a sign of a heart attack. Keep in mind, shortness of breath means that the heart is not pumping blood as it is supposed to.
Take note, shortness of breath is common in women than in men.
3. Discomfort in Upper Body
Discomfort in the upper body especially the left arm is a sign of heart attack. The nerves from the arm and those from the heart usually send the same signals to the brain. As a result, it is difficult for the brain cells to distinguish between the source of pain.
Sometimes left arm pain may be caused by compressed nerves or injuries. If in doubt, walk in a clinic near you, especially if the pain is accompanied by other symptoms such as numbness in the back and neck.
4. Dizziness and Lightheadedness
Several factors can cause dizziness like standing up too quickly or extreme hunger. However, if you have sudden dizziness, chest pain and shortness of breath, you need to seek urgent care immediately. These symptoms could indicate a drop in blood pressure because of the ineffectiveness of the heart to pump blood.
5. Throat and Jaw Pain
Jaw pain on its own isn’t heart-related as it could be caused by cold or flu. But, if you have chest pain that spreads to the jaw and throat it could be a sign of heart attack, so it’s crucial to seek medical attention for an assessment.
Other symptoms
- Sweating during the day and night especially if you are not active is dangerous. Night sweats in women are at times mistaken to menopause. But, if you wake up soaked in sweat, it could be a sign of heart attack
- Fatigue
- Heart palpitations
- Nausea and vomiting especially if you have other risk factors can be a sign of heart attack
Are You at Risk?
Several factors can increase your risk of a heart attack such as:
- Diabetes
- Obesity
- Smoking history of heart disease
- Previous heart attack
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Family history of heart problems
If you have any of these risk factors, you need to pay attention to any slight pain associated with the heart. Additionally, it is essential to maintain proper weight and lifestyle to keep your heart healthy. A change in diet and exercise can go a long way to keep these lifestyle diseases at bay.
