Heart Attack Silent Symptoms: When you think about a heart attack, you might often imagine it happening suddenly, like someone clutching your chest and falling to the ground. But did you know that your body might start warning you weeks before a heart attack happens? Yes, in many cases, signs appear a month or even earlier. The key is to listen to your body and not ignore your symptoms, even if they seem small.
First, what is a heart attack?
A heart attack happens when the blood flow to the heart is blocked. Without enough oxygen, the heart muscles start to die. It’s a serious medical emergency and needs immediate attention. But before the full-blown attack happens, your heart tries to send warning signs.
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Some of them include:
Chest discomfort
One of the most common early symptoms is chest discomfort. It might not feel like a dramatic pain. Many people experience a feeling of tightness, pressure, or a burning sensation in the chest. At times, it may manifest as a sensation of fullness or a fluctuating dull ache. This discomfort might not always be in the centre of the chest; some people feel it more on the left or even in the upper back. If these symptoms occur after physical effort, like walking or climbing stairs, or during emotional stress, they shouldn’t be brushed off.
Shortness of breath
Do you suddenly experience shortness of breath during activities that previously didn’t cause you any discomfort? Do you feel breathless when climbing steps, walking a short distance, or talking while walking? This symptom can be a sign that your heart isn’t pumping properly, and your body isn’t getting enough oxygen. It might happen with or without chest pain.
Unusual fatigue
Even after a good night’s sleep, feeling more tired than usual can be a significant concern, particularly for women. You need to watch out for some symptoms, like
- Feeling exhausted after small tasks
- Needing naps more often
- Waking up tired
- Feeling “worn out” for no clear reason
The fatigue might be because your body is using a lot of energy to keep your heart working. Fatigue can manifest subtly as a symptom of a heart attack.
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Nausea or upset stomach
Many people, particularly women, experience stomach discomfort before a heart attack. It can feel like acid reflux, bloating or nausea without vomiting. It’s easy to mistake the sensation for something you ate, but if it keeps happening or feels unusual, don’t ignore it.
How long before a heart attack do these signs appear?
Heart attack symptoms don’t always strike suddenly. Signs like fatigue or shortness of breath can start showing up weeks in advance. Others, such as chest pain, cold sweats, or dizziness, might appear just hours or days before the event.
Symptoms vary from person to person. Some people experience multiple warning signs, while others may have none at all. That’s why it’s crucial to stay in tune with your body and recognise when something feels “off.”
