Heart attack symptoms can appear weeks before the actual event. These early indicators, called prodromal symptoms, often resemble the warning signs experienced during a heart attack itself, such as chest pain, shortness of breath, and palpitations. However, some symptoms may be subtler, and in some cases, there may be no warning signs at all.
This guide outlines six of the most common symptoms reported in the month leading up to a heart attack and highlights less typical signs. It also discusses what commonly occurs immediately before a heart attack and how to recognize the need for urgent medical care.
Warning Signs of a Heart Attack
1. Chest Pain
A 2023 study involving 242 heart attack survivors revealed that 100 experienced prodromal symptoms. Among these, chest pain was the most frequently reported, with 68% describing this sensation before their heart attack.
2. Chest Heaviness
In the same study, 44% of participants reported feeling chest heaviness, tightness, or pressure, often triggered by physical exertion.
3. Heart Palpitations
Around 42% of those surveyed experienced heart palpitations—episodes where the heart beats too fast, too hard, or seems to skip a beat.
4. Shortness of Breath
Difficulty breathing, even at rest, may indicate cardiovascular disease. Shortness of breath (dyspnea) is a common precursor to heart issues and should not be ignored.
5. Burning Sensation in the Chest
A burning feeling in the chest may be mistaken for heartburn but could signal an impending heart attack. Pay attention to symptoms unrelated to common triggers, such as spicy foods.
6. Fatigue
While occasional tiredness is normal, persistent, unexplained fatigue may point to a serious health issue, such as heart disease.
Also read : Heart-Healthy Lifestyle Changes to Prevent a Heart Attack
Gender Differences in Symptoms
Both males and females typically report chest pain during a heart attack, but females are more likely to experience other symptoms, including dizziness, nausea, indigestion, and fatigue. Unfortunately, these are often dismissed as minor issues, delaying critical care.
Less Common Symptoms to Watch For
Other subtle warning signs can occur weeks before a heart attack:
- Dizziness: May result from reduced blood flow to the brain due to blockages.
- Nausea or Stomach Discomfort: Particularly if there’s no clear explanation for it.
- Anxiety: 23% of patients with prodromal symptoms report increased anxiety.
- Sleep Disturbances: Sleep issues without an obvious cause could be a warning sign.
- Swelling in Legs, Ankles, or Feet: May indicate poor circulation or a blockage.
- Pain in Other Areas: Discomfort in the arms, back, neck, or jaw can occur before or during a heart attack.
Understanding the Cause of Symptoms
Heart attack symptoms arise as the heart struggles to maintain blood flow. Plaques formed by cholesterol, calcium, and inflammatory cells in the coronary arteries can rupture, leading to blockages. This restricted blood flow triggers symptoms like chest pain, dizziness, or swelling.
What Happens Right Before a Heart Attack
In the moments leading up to a heart attack, common symptoms include:
- Chest discomfort, often in the center or left side
- Shortness of breath
- Light-headedness or fainting
- Pain in the back, neck, jaw, or arms
- Sweating or a sense of impending doom
When to Seek Help
If you or someone nearby shows signs of a heart attack, seek emergency medical attention immediately. Quick action can significantly reduce the risk of permanent heart damage.
Early recognition of these symptoms could save your life or the life of someone you care about. Stay informed and don’t hesitate to consult a healthcare provider if you notice unusual changes in your health.