6 Early Signs of Heart Attack You Must Know

Heart attack or stroke has become a serious problem these days.  Having a heart attack is always a terrifying experience that nobody would like to go through. Hence it is important to understand and detect early symptoms of a heart attack. 

The majority of patients have fairly standard symptoms, such as radiating chest pain, heaviness or discomfort, heart palpitations, cold sweats, and shortness of breath. Others, particularly women, will feel some unusual symptoms, such as weariness, a general sensation of unease, vague discomfort, back or abdominal pain, and decreased endurance. Both types of symptoms can appear months before a heart attack happens. 

Heart attacks are extremely risky. In fact, one out of every five heart attacks goes unrecognized, which means that the heart muscle is damaged owing to a lack of blood supply — but the person is unaware that this has happened. 

In this article, we have discussed 5 early symptoms of heart disease which we should not be ignored. 

Early symptoms of heart disease

Chest Pain: 

It's a common sign of a heart attack, yet many people are unaware that this could be a medical emergency. Heart disease or heart attack is typically described as a feeling of heaviness, tightness, or pressure in the chest; people will frequently describe it as ‘an elephant sitting on my chest' or ‘it felt like a tight band around my chest,' or some such restricting sensation. 

If you have chest pains when you exert yourself but they go away when you stop, it is more likely that you have angina. That doesn't mean you shouldn't see a doctor. 

Pain in legs: 

If you get a gripping, cramping sensation in your calves when walking, consult your doctor because this could be a sign of PAD (peripheral arterial disease). It is especially prevalent in smokers and diabetics. 

(Also read diabetic diet plan for Indians) 

Stomach and neck, jaw and arm pain: 

The discomfort of a heart attack may not be limited to the chest. A heart attack can also cause pain or discomfort in your arm, back, neck, jaw, or stomach. However, because many individuals may not identify discomfort in these locations with having a heart attack, they may fail to seek emergency medical help. 

(Also read diabetic diet plan for Indians) 

Breathing problems, nausea, and lightheadedness: 

During a heart attack, shortness of breath can develop with or without chest pain. Most people are unaware that this can occur before or after a heart attack, particularly in women. According to research, shortness of breath is the third most commonly reported symptom prior to a heart attack among women – and the top symptom during a heart attack. 

Swollen ankles: 

This should not be neglected, especially if the ankles become really large, as it can be a sign of heart failure, but it is also very common and has a variety of other causes. It could also be due to the medicines you're taking – for example, blood pressure medication can cause swelling ankles. 

Dizziness: 

Many things might cause dizziness, including not drinking enough water, skipping lunch, or standing up too quickly. However, dizziness or lightheadedness combined with chest pain and shortness of breath may indicate a decrease in blood volume and a drop in blood pressure, indicating that a heart attack is imminent. 

I am sure you would love to read how to keep your heart healthy.