Signs of A Heart Attack
3 minute read
While there are some heart attacks that present with intense pain out of the blue, the way it is portrayed in movies, most do not. It is much more common for the signs of a heart attack to develop slowly, with only slight discomfort to start with. This can be confusing and discourage the sufferer from seeking help in a timely manner. If you are unsure of what is happening, it is always best to seek professional assistance.
Experiencing Chest Pain
While chest pain is an obvious sign of a heart attack, the type and location of the pain can vary from one person to another. In most cases, discomfort starts in the center of the chest. It may last several minutes, disappear, and then return or it may be constant. It may feel like immense pressure is being placed on the chest or like a tight ache, squeezing, or fullness. The pain can range from mild to severe.
It is important to note that while chest discomfort is the most common symptom of a heart attack in both men and women, there are some people that do not experience chest pain.
Additional Signs of a Heart Attack
Upper body discomfort: Pain may spread up into the shoulders, as well as into your back, neck, jaw, and teeth. Pain may radiate down one, especially the left, or both arms.
Shortness of breath: Without warning, you may find yourself panting or unable to take deep breaths. It can occur while you are engaged in physical activity or while you are resting. For some individuals, this may be the only symptom they experience.
Stomach pain: Discomfort may extend into the abdomen (usually right above the belly button). It is usually comparable to the pain felt with heartburn. You may become nauseous and vomit.
Dizziness: It is not uncommon to break out in a cold sweat and feel dizzy or lightheaded.
Extreme fatigue: Without any change in your usual routine, you may begin to feel unusually tired. This may last for several days.
Anxiety: Some sufferers report feeling a sense of impending doom.
Heart Attack Signs in Women
Women are more likely to experience shortness of breath, extreme fatigue, nausea and vomiting, and pain the back, jaw, and shoulders.
Signs of a Heart Attack in Patients With Diabetes
Diabetes and heart disease tend to go hand-in-hand. As a result, it is very important for individuals suffering from diabetes to have a clear understanding of what symptoms they may experience.
Due to nerve damage, it is not unusual for a diabetic patient to have no symptoms or mild symptoms of a heart attack. This is especially true in regards to pain. However, they may notice an unexpected change in their blood sugar levels.
If you or someone you are with begin to exhibit any signs of a heart attack, it is important to seek professional help immediately. The easiest way to do this is by calling 911.
