With claiming millions of lives every year, heart attack is one of the leading causes of death worldwide. While some heart attacks strike suddenly and intensely, others start slowly with mild discomfort. Hence, recognising signs of a heart attack and seeking prompt medication is of utmost importance. Heart attacks can last a few minutes and can even come and go. But what are the signs and symptoms of heart attacks? Let’s check.
Chest Pain or Discomfort: This is the most common symptom of a heart attack. It may feel like pressure, squeezing, fullness, or pain in the centre of the chest that lasts more than a few minutes or goes away and comes back. It can sometimes feel like heartburn or indigestion, but it’s essential not to dismiss it, especially if it’s accompanied by other symptoms.
Pain or Discomfort in Other Areas of the Upper Body: Besides the chest, pain or discomfort may occur in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw, or stomach. This discomfort can range from mild to severe and may come and go.
Shortness of Breath: Feeling breathless or experiencing difficulty breathing, especially along with chest discomfort, is a warning sign of a possible heart attack. It can occur with or without chest pain.
Cold Sweat: Profuse sweating, particularly if it’s sudden and not attributed to activity or temperature, can be a sign of a heart attack. The skin may also feel clammy or cold to the touch.
Nausea or Vomiting: Feeling sick to your stomach or vomiting, especially in combination with other symptoms like chest pain, can indicate a heart attack. It’s often mistaken for gastrointestinal issues.
Light-headedness or Dizziness: Feeling faint, light-headed, or dizzy can occur during a heart attack. It may be accompanied by other symptoms like chest pain or shortness of breath.
Fatigue: Unusual fatigue or a feeling of extreme tiredness, especially if it’s sudden or severe, can be a sign of an impending heart attack. It’s often more common in women.
Unexplained Anxiety: While anxiety can be a symptom of various conditions, unexplained or intense feelings of anxiety or impending doom can sometimes signal a heart attack, especially if it’s accompanied by other symptoms.
Heartburn-Like Symptoms: Some people experience symptoms resembling heartburn or indigestion during a heart attack. This can include a burning sensation in the chest, upper abdomen, or throat.
Cough: A persistent cough, particularly if it produces white or pink mucus, can indicate fluid buildup in the lungs, a possible complication of a heart attack.
It’s important to note that heart attack symptoms can vary widely from person to person, and not everyone experiences the classic signs. Some individuals, particularly women, older adults, and those with diabetes, may have atypical symptoms or no symptoms at all. Hence, whenever you see someone experiencing these symptoms then it becomes essential to seek medical help immediately.
