Warning Signs of a Heart Attack

It’s widely known that sudden, sharp pain in the chest—especially if it radiates down one or both arms or travels up to the neck—can signal a heart attack. This kind of pain should never be ignored. If you experience it, call emergency services immediately. Try to remain as calm and still as possible while waiting for help. If you have Aspirin nearby, taking it can help, but don’t waste energy searching for it. Minimizing physical effort is key, as even small movements could put more strain on your heart.

In some cases, especially if you're alone, you might only have a few seconds before losing consciousness. That’s why it’s useful to remember a simple technique: cough CPR. Take a deep breath every two seconds, followed by a strong, deep cough. The deep breaths help bring oxygen into your lungs, while the coughing acts like a manual pump, helping to circulate blood and potentially restore your heart’s rhythm. This is not a replacement for medical treatment, but it might buy you precious time until help arrives.

Heart Attack Symptoms Aren’t Always the Same

Chest pain isn’t the only indicator of heart trouble, and it doesn’t feel the same for everyone. While some people describe it as severe pressure or a heavy weight on the chest (like an elephant sitting on it), others might feel burning, tightness, or just mild discomfort. Women, in particular, may experience more subtle symptoms such as burning sensations or aching, while men often report intense pressure.

If you’re feeling pain that spreads to your arms, back, neck, jaw, or stomach—or if it just feels off—don’t ignore it. Get medical help right away.

Understanding Heart Attacks

Most heart attacks are a result of Coronary Heart Disease (CHD). This happens when arteries become narrowed or blocked by a buildup of plaque—fatty substances that reduce blood flow. Sometimes, a piece of plaque breaks off and forms a clot, which can completely block the artery. When this occurs, oxygen can’t reach part of the heart, and that’s when a heart attack happens.

The good news is that CHD often presents early warning signs. Recognizing them can give you time to take action before it becomes an emergency.

Early Signs Your Heart May Be Struggling

1. Excessive Sweating
   If you're sweating more than usual—especially cold or clammy sweats—it could be your body trying to cool down because your heart is working harder to pump blood through narrowed arteries. Women often report night sweats before a heart event.

2. Unusual Tiredness or Difficulty Breathing
   Persistent fatigue and shortness of breath, especially during regular activities, are signs your heart may be under stress. These symptoms are more common in women and can show up weeks or even months in advance. Dizziness or fainting episodes may also occur due to reduced blood flow.

3. Digestive Issues
   Mild indigestion, nausea, or discomfort in the upper abdomen can be easy to dismiss. But if these symptoms are new, persistent, or unusual for you—especially if you're at risk of heart disease—don’t take chances. Talk to a doctor.

4. Swelling in the Body
   Notice swelling in your feet, ankles, or stomach? This could indicate your heart isn’t pumping blood effectively, leading to fluid buildup. It’s a subtle but important signal.

5. Feeling Overwhelmed or Anxious
   Some people report a sudden, intense feeling of anxiety or dread before a heart attack—what’s often described as a “sense of doom.” If you're feeling anxious without an obvious cause, especially alongside physical symptoms, it’s worth taking seriously.

Trust Yourself and Take Action

Your body often knows when something is wrong—even before your brain can process it. If something doesn’t feel right, don’t ignore it. You’re not being dramatic or wasting anyone’s time by checking in with a doctor. Listening to your body, recognizing the signs, and acting quickly can literally save your life.