Most people generally think that the main symptom of a heart attack is pain in the chest. But in recent decades, scientists have found that the symptoms of a heart attack are unclear and can occur in several ways, depending on several factors such as: gender, type of heart attack, and age. It is important to understand variations in symptoms that indicate a heart attack, so you can get the right help for yourself and the people you care about.
Early symptoms of a heart attack
The earlier / faster you get help, the greater your chance to recover completely. Unfortunately, many people don't immediately seek help even though they suspect something is happening. Some people may feel lazy to do the examination, because they think that the symptoms are mild only limited to heartburn or muscle pain.
Doctors strongly recommend immediately seeking help if you experience the initial symptoms of a heart attack. Even though your guess is wrong, it's better to do a few tests than to experience long-term heart damage or other health problems, because you wait too long. Symptoms of a heart attack vary by person. Trust yourself, because you know your body more than anyone. If you feel something is wrong with your body, don't delay it. Check the doctor immediately.
According to the Society of Chest Pain Center, the initial symptoms of a heart attack occur in 50% of patients with a heart attack, and if symptoms are immediately realized, a heart attack can be avoided. The initial symptoms of a heart attack can include:
- Mild pain or discomfort in the chest, which comes and goes
- Pain in the shoulders, neck and jaw
- Nausea and vomiting, sweating
- Dizzy, fainted
- Feeling like something bad is going to happen
- Restless or dazed
- Hard to breathe
Symptoms of a heart attack in men
Research has proven that the risk of heart attack in men increases significantly after the age of 40 years. The history of heart disease in families and other risk factors, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, and being overweight can increase risk.
Research has shown a heart reaction to heart attacks in men, and general symptoms, namely:
- Chest pain, like an elephant occupying your chest; sensations can come and go, or be constant
- Fast or irregular heartbeat
- Hard to breathe
- Dizziness, or feeling like you're going to faint
- A cold sweat
- Discomfort in the stomach, such as indigestion.
Keep in mind that each heart attack is different and symptoms can differ from the description above.
Symptoms of a heart attack in women
In the past few decades, experts have only realized the symptoms of a heart attack in women different from men. In a study published in the Journal Circulation of 515 women who had a heart attack, the symptoms reported did not include chest pain. However, women reported unusual fatigue, sleep disorders, and anxiety, with almost 80% reporting at least 1 symptom more than 1 month before a heart attack. Other symptoms that are common in women, including:
- Unusual fatigue for several days, or sudden severe fatigue
- Anxiety and sleep disorders
- Dizziness and or shortness of breath
- Indigestion
- Pain in the upper back or shoulder, possible sore throat
- Pain that spreads to the jaw
- Pressure or pain in the center of the chest, which can spread to the arm
According to the American Heart Association survey in 2009, only half of women would ask for emergency help if they felt they had a heart attack. Even if you feel unsure, go immediately to the emergency department. Take decisions based on what you feel normal and abnormal happens to you. If you have never experienced symptoms like this before, seek help immediately. If you are unsure of the doctor's conclusions, check with another doctor.
Symptoms of a heart attack in women over 50 years
Women pass significant physical changes at age 50 due to menopause. During this time, estrogen levels decrease. Estrogen is believed to protect heart health and after menopause, women have a higher risk of heart attack. It is important for women who have passed menopause to be aware of heart health.
Symptoms of a heart attack in women over 50 years are the same as other women in general, and can include symptoms experienced by men, such as serious chest pain, sweating, and irregular heartbeat. Beware of symptoms and regular checks can maintain your health.
Symptoms of "silent heart attack"
Silent heart attacks are common heart attacks, but occur without symptoms. Patients often do not realize they have had a heart attack. Blood clots reduce the supply of oxygen in certain parts of the heart, and some heart tissue dies, but for some reason there are no serious symptoms. Sometimes also caused by nerves in the damaged heart. This type of heart attack is more common in people with diabetes and who have had a previous heart attack, and may have been diagnosed during a routine examination.
According to research at Duke University Medical Center in 2009, an estimated 200,000 Americans have a heart attack without realizing it every year. Unfortunately, this condition can damage the heart and increase the risk of heart attack in the future.
Mild symptoms that can indicate silent heart attack, namely:
- Discomfort in the chest, arms, or jaw that is lost after resting
- Shortness of breath and tiredness
- Sleep disorders and increased fatigue
- Pain in the stomach or heartburn
- Adherence to the skin
After a silent heart attack occurs, patients can feel more tired than before, or have difficulty exercising. To maintain your heart health, do regular physical exercise, and if you have heart risk factors, consult a doctor and check the condition of your heart.