Heart attacks can strike suddenly and with severe consequences, so recognizing early warning signs is crucial. However, some early symptoms often go unnoticed, putting people at risk. Here are four lesser-known signs that should never be ignored.
Unusual Chest Discomfort
Persistent or strange chest discomfort is a key warning of an impending heart attack. According to Dr. Roger Blumenthal, director of the Johns Hopkins Ciccarone Center for the Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease, this discomfort often results from plaque buildup in the arteries. Known as angina, this type of pain can feel like pressure, squeezing, or fullness and may stem from restricted blood flow. Seeking medical attention for any unusual chest sensations is essential to prevent a more serious event.
Pain in the Neck, Shoulder, or Jaw
Pain radiating through the neck, shoulder, or jaw—especially if it’s on one side—can be an early sign of heart trouble. Dr. Blumenthal notes that angina can sometimes present as pain outside the chest area, particularly in older adults. Cardiologist Dr. Jayne Morgan adds that women are more likely to experience jaw pain as a warning sign before a heart attack, along with a general feeling of being run down. These subtle but serious symptoms may signal the need for immediate medical help.
Difficulty Breathing After Physical Activity
If you find yourself gasping for air or feeling unusually winded after mild exertion, it could be an early sign of a heart attack. Dr. Abha Khandelwal of Stanford Health Care explains that breathlessness combined with chest discomfort or arm numbness is concerning. Research from the Sarver Heart Center suggests that more than half of patients experiencing a heart attack display gasping symptoms, including snoring or moaning sounds, as a survival reflex.
Nausea and General Fatigue
Unexpected nausea, abdominal pain, or extreme fatigue may also be signs of heart trouble. Yale Medicine cardiologist Dr. Nikhil Sikand points out that, while these symptoms may not occur in everyone, they can indicate an impending heart attack. The time between these early symptoms and a heart attack can range from weeks to days, with symptoms often intensifying just before the event.
Take Immediate Action
No matter how minor these symptoms seem, it’s important to take them seriously. Cardiologists urge people to seek help immediately if any of these signs appear, especially if they escalate quickly.
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