Heart problems don’t always present themselves in dramatic ways, like the sudden collapse often shown in movies. In real life, heart attack symptoms can be subtle and vary widely from person to person — especially between men and women.
Some individuals may experience the classic chest pain, while others might feel discomfort in different parts of the body, such as the shoulder, back, or stomach.
When Does a Heart Attack Occur?
Your heart is a powerful muscle that pumps blood throughout the body, delivering oxygen and nutrients to keep it functioning properly. A heart attack, medically known as a myocardial infarction, happens when blood flow to the heart muscle is severely reduced or blocked. Without enough oxygen-rich blood, parts of the heart muscle become damaged — which can be life-threatening.
Although a heart attack can feel sudden, it often results from an underlying heart condition that has developed over time. The most common causes include plaque buildup in the arteries or a blood clot that blocks blood flow.
Certain triggers like intense physical exertion, emotional stress, or cold temperatures can constrict blood vessels and reduce blood flow to the heart. Several risk factors can increase the chances of a heart attack, including:
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Family history of heart disease
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Age
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Obesity
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High cholesterol
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High blood pressure
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Poor dietary habits
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Stress
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Lack of physical activity
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Excessive alcohol consumption
If you’re at risk, it’s important to monitor your heart health regularly. A cardiac risk marker test, available through Thyrocare, is a cost-effective way to assess your risk. Thyrocare offers reliable test packages with free home sample collection.
Key Warning Signs of a Heart Attack
Recognizing the early signs of a heart attack can save lives. Here are some symptoms to watch for:
1. Chest Pain or Pressure
The most well-known symptom is chest discomfort. People describe it in different ways — some say it feels like an elephant is sitting on their chest, while others report a sensation of tightness or squeezing. This discomfort might come and go or appear hours — even days — later.
2. Pain Radiating to Other Areas
Heart attack pain isn’t limited to the chest. You might feel discomfort in areas such as the left arm, shoulders, neck, back, jaw, or upper stomach. Women, in particular, often experience lower chest or abdominal pain during a heart attack.
3. Excessive Sweating
Unusual or excessive sweating, particularly night sweats in women, may be an early warning sign. When arteries are blocked, the heart has to work harder to circulate blood, causing the body to sweat to maintain normal temperature.
4. Shortness of Breath
The heart and lungs work together to deliver oxygen to the body. When the heart struggles to pump effectively, it may lead to difficulty breathing. Women may also feel extreme fatigue along with shortness of breath.
5. Irregular Heartbeat (Palpitations)
Some individuals notice that their heartbeat feels irregular or skips a beat. A consistent rhythm is essential for proper heart function — any disruption could signal a potential heart attack.
Other Symptoms to Watch For
Additional signs may include nausea, vomiting, indigestion, heartburn, or other digestive issues. These symptoms are sometimes mistaken for less serious problems, but they can indicate a heart attack.
If you suspect you or someone else may be having a heart attack, seek emergency medical help immediately.
