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8 warning signs of heart attack to not ignore

Cardiovascular diseases of one kind or another are prevalent in almost half the population of the world, where the country alone records nearly 805,000 cases of heart attacks annually. This huge number indicates how important it is for people to be aware of the warning signs to get timely treatment and assistance. Once people know what signs to look out for, the chances of heart attacks or other undiagnosed heart conditions can decrease significantly.

Chest discomfort or pain
Chest discomfort or pain is one of the key warning signs that should not be ignored under any circumstances. One might experience tightness, heaviness, or strong squeezing in the chest. This can be due to the cholesterol build-up that has caused the narrowing of the arteries and veins. A tighter space would also mean the heart has a limited blood supply and functioning capacity. Even if one experiences a mild variation of this symptom, one should speak to the doctor or visit the ER as soon as possible. Chest discomfort, especially when resting, can be a worrisome sign.

Fatigue
Sometimes, one may feel tired and worn out from day-to-day activities. These tasks may not require much effort, but suddenly, they become challenging to complete. This can be as simple as carrying groceries or walking a few steps. If one experiences difficulty, it is important to visit the doctor immediately. These seemingly insignificant changes can be a severe warning sign, and timely intervention may be able to help prevent a heart attack.
It’s important to remember that unexplained and extreme fatigue or exhaustion can be an indication of heart disease. So, if one experiences unexplained weakness that persists for several days, seek medical attention immediately.

Nausea
It is common for some people to experience knots in their stomachs before having a heart attack, which can lead to nausea or vomiting. This is one of the warning signs to look out for. Women are more likely to experience nausea than men. However, an upset stomach is not always a sign of a heart attack. It can also be caused by something as simple as food poisoning. Nevertheless, it is always better to get checked and have the condition assessed, especially if at risk of heart complications. Nausea should not be overlooked as mere heartburn or indigestion; it should be taken seriously.

Dizziness
One should be cautious if one starts experiencing lightheadedness or a blackout. According to research, this sign is more prominent in women than men. If one experiences difficulty standing or performing a task that requires being on the feet for an extended period, it could be a sign of dizziness. Additionally, if one feels like the room is spinning or the vision is becoming blurry, it could also be a sign of dizziness. These are all warning signs that the body may be indicating a potential heart attack. If one experiences these symptoms, seeking medical attention immediately is essential for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Shortness of breath
One of the warning signs of a heart problem is difficulty performing simple physical activities such as walking, climbing stairs or doing mild physical activity, which can cause shortness of breath. Climbing up a flight of stairs should not make an individual feel like they have just finished a marathon. If one experiences shortness of breath after such activities, it may indicate that the heart cannot pump blood effectively. Shortness of breath can occur with or without chest pain and can be a sign of a silent heart attack.

Pain in the arm
Another hallmark symptom is arm pain. In most patients, the pain can be described as a shooting sensation that radiates on the left side down to the fingers. The epicenter of this pain, in most cases, is the chest. The pain moves in an outward fashion, which then radiates on the left side of the patient. However, sometimes, patients visit the doctor complaining of severe pain in their arms, which later can turn out to be a heart attack.

Swollen extremities
Swelling in the legs, ankles, or feet is a symptom that indicates inadequate blood flow to these body parts. This can occur when the heart cannot pump sufficient blood throughout the body, leading to bloating. If heart problems persist, they can also affect the kidneys, causing the body to retain excess water, sodium, and other minerals that should be eliminated. It is crucial to seek medical attention if you experience swelling in these areas, as it can be a sign of an underlying health condition that needs to be addressed.

Irregular heartbeat
Physical activity, nervousness, and excitement can alter the normal pattern of one’s heartbeat. However, if an individual experiences unexplained palpitations or missing beats without apparent reason, they should consult a doctor. If the irregular heartbeat persists along with other warning signs such as dizziness, nausea, or discomfort, it may cause concern. It is essential to note that an irregular heartbeat can indicate a range of causes, from excess caffeine consumption to atrial fibrillation. To determine the cause and seek appropriate treatment, it is recommended to speak with a doctor.

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