It is common knowledge that conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, smoking, and lack of exercise contribute to the risk of having a heart attack. However, many individuals are unaware of the early warning signs that indicate a potential cardiac event. Experts emphasize the importance of recognizing these symptoms as they can potentially save lives. Heart disease is the leading cause of death for both men and women in the United States. Dr. Abha Khandelwal, a clinical associate professor of cardiovascular medicine at Stanford Health Care, highlights the increase in mortality from heart disease during the pandemic, underscoring the need for people to be knowledgeable about their risks and recognize warning signs.
To help individuals identify the early signs of a heart attack and understand what actions to take, experts have shared their insights:
1. Chest Pain Or Pressure: Dr. Roger Blumenthal, Director of the Johns Hopkins Ciccarone Center for the Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease, explains that angina, a type of intermittent chest pain caused by plaque buildup in the arteries, can be an indicator of an impending heart attack. If you experience any form of chest discomfort, including angina symptoms other than pain, it is crucial to contact your doctor.
2. Neck, Shoulder Or Jaw Pain: While heart attacks are often associated with immediate pain in the left arm, early warning signs may not be as evident. Dr. Blumenthal mentions that angina can also present as pain radiating through the neck, shoulder, or arm. Numbness that extends to the jaw can also be a potential symptom.
3. Getting Easily Winded Or Uncomfortable After Exertion: Feeling excessively out of breath can be a red flag, according to Dr. Khandelwal. This includes feeling more winded than usual after performing simple tasks such as installing a light fixture or preparing the garden for spring. Some individuals may also experience arm numbness or chest discomfort after extreme physical exertion.
4. Nausea Or Other Stomach Problems: Dr. Nikhil Sikand, a Yale Medicine cardiologist, highlights that abdominal pain, nausea, and overall fatigue can also serve as warning signs of a heart attack. However, it’s important to note that not everyone experiences these symptoms. Some patients may have mild or no symptoms at all.
In the days leading up to a heart attack, symptoms may become more frequent or intense. Dr. Khandelwal mentions that approximately two-thirds of her patients can recall experiencing chest pain in the month prior to a heart attack. Some individuals may even notice a worsening of symptoms just before the event. If you observe any symptoms, it is imperative to seek help promptly. If the symptoms worsen suddenly and severely, calling 911 is crucial. Even individuals without a history of heart disease who experience mild symptoms should inform their doctor to determine the appropriate course of action, including potential testing.
Timely medical attention, even after experiencing a heart attack, can lead to life-saving treatment. Prevention plays a crucial role in everyday life. While certain risk factors for heart disease are beyond individual control, many can be managed. Simple behaviors such as maintaining a daily exercise routine and making dietary changes can help reduce the risk of a cardiac event. Additionally, being aware of personal numbers such as blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and blood sugar can provide valuable information. Familiarizing oneself with the warning signs of a heart attack is essential.
It is advisable to take proactive measures, such as utilizing resources like CardioSmart by the American College of Cardiology, to learn about ways to reduce heart attack risk. This tool provides guidance on smoking cessation, the benefits of exercise on heart health, healthy eating tips, and more. Regular communication with a healthcare professional is also crucial. Dr. Sikand emphasizes the importance of following up with a health professional regularly to identify and address potential risk factors for heart disease.
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