Heart attacks remain one of the leading causes of death worldwide, claiming countless lives each year. According to data from the World Health Organization (WHO), nearly 18 million people die each year as a result of heart disorders such as coronary heart disease, cerebrovascular disease, rheumatic heart disease and other conditions. The NHS reports that three out of four people in the UK mistake a heart attack for cardiac arrest.
Risk factors for a heart attack
Heart attacks have been perceived as sudden and unpredictable events. However, medical experts have long understood several risk factors, such as:
- High pressure
- High cholesterol
- Obesity
- Smoke
Now, researchers are shedding light on subtle symptoms that could serve as red flags, allowing for timely intervention.
Early indicators of a heart attack
“One of the first indicators of a heart attack is recurrent chest discomfort or angina. This pain can present as a feeling of pressure, tightness or fullness in the chest, and can be intermittent or persistent. doctor Bharat Kukreti, Associate Director, Cardiology, Paras Hospitals, Gurugram.
The Doctor. Kukreti believes that the early symptoms of a heart attack, particularly chest pain, belching, a little sweating and feeling queasy, are often misdiagnosed as acid reflux or gastritis.
Shortness of breath, often dismissed as a result of aging or poor physical fitness, can also be a significant early symptom of an impending heart attack.
People who experience unexplained shortness of breath during routine activities, such as climbing stairs or walking short distances, should not ignore these warning signs. Seeking medical evaluation is crucial as it can help determine the underlying cause and mitigate the risk of a heart attack.
The British Heart Foundation has identified excessive fatigue and unexplained weakness as potential precursors to a heart attack. Feeling tired even after ample rest or experiencing sudden bouts of exhaustion could indicate an underlying cardiovascular problem. While fatigue by itself is not indicative of an impending heart attack, combined with other symptoms it should be taken seriously.
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Another alarming sign that should not be overlooked is excessive sweating, especially in the absence of physical exertion or hot weather. This symptom, often accompanied by feelings of anxiety or impending doom, warrants immediate medical attention. Profuse, unexplained sweating can indicate an impending heart attack, as the body’s response to decreased blood flow and oxygen supply.
Regular Exams Are Imperative
People who notice a change in heartbeat patterns, such as an irregular or fast heartbeat, palpitations, or an irregular heartbeat, should see a cardiologist immediately. While these symptoms can have a variety of causes, they can also be warning signs of an impending heart attack. It is crucial to undergo an electrocardiogram (ECG) to assess the heart’s electrical activity and rule out any serious underlying problems.
Recognizing and recognizing these early warning signs is key to early intervention and prevention. Regular check-ups and doctor visits become even more important when people have multiple risk factors, such as a family history of heart disease, diabetes or a sedentary lifestyle.
Also Read: Heart Attacks During Exercise, Warning Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore
To remove
Recognizing subtle symptoms of a heart attack, such as recurring chest discomfort, shortness of breath, fatigue, excessive sweating and an irregular heartbeat, can be critical in identifying individuals at risk. Encouraging regular check-ups and raising awareness of these signs is crucial in preventing heart attacks and ultimately saving lives. Remember, early detection can be the key to a healthier heart and a brighter future.