Warning signs of a heart attack?

World Health Organization reports ischaemic heart disease to be the leading cause of death worldwide, with the number of deaths due to cardiovascular diseases in 2019 being 8.9 million.

According to research, in the days or months leading up to a heart attack, people experience certain symptoms known as prodromal symptoms.

A research published in The National Library of Medicine, states that the prodromal symptoms are often overlooked by patients and primary clinicians.

Some of those symptoms “include chest pain, chest heaviness, chest burning, palpitations, fatigue, sleep disturbance, shortness of breath (SOB), dizziness, anxiety, sudden heat or cold, back pain, and vomiting.”

Fatigue

Being extremely tired, sleepy, exhausted or lacking energy to perform even the slightest of tasks can be a sign of fatigue. One of the reasons it may affect a person are the lowered levels of blood that go to the heart. This usually takes place when arteries get narrowed. Fatigue can easily happen if someone experiences heart issues.

2. Shortness of Breath

Shortness of breath occurs when the lungs don’t receive enough oxygen to support the body’s proper function. If you or someone you know experiences sudden shortness of breath, it’s crucial to seek medical attention, as it could be a warning sign of a potential heart attack. According to WebMD, “shortness of breath and feeling tired can be signs of [heart failure].”

Heart failure refers to the heart’s inability to effectively pump blood throughout the body.

3. Weakness

Sudden, unexplained weakness may be your body’s way of signaling that something is wrong. It could be a sign to slow down and reassess your health and lifestyle choices.

4. Dizziness and Cold Sweats

Both dizziness and cold sweats can result from poor circulation, a symptom that should never be ignored. These warning signs may indicate an underlying heart issue that requires immediate attention.

5. Flu or Cold-like Symptoms

Many individuals who have suffered a heart attack reported experiencing flu-like symptoms in the days leading up to the event. If you notice unusual symptoms resembling a cold or flu, it’s essential to monitor your condition closely.

6. Chest Pressure

One of the most common signs of a heart attack is persistent chest pressure. This sensation often intensifies over time until the attack occurs, making it crucial to seek medical help at the first sign of discomfort.

7. Swollen Feet

If you have congestive heart failure, one or both of your heart’s lower chambers lose their ability to pump blood effectively. As a result, blood can back up in your legs, ankles and feet, causing edema.

If you are interested to learn more about heart attack and some of the symptoms which pre-follow this condition go to the video below in which Dr. Travis Stork speaks on the Symptoms of Heart Attack.