Are You Having a Silent Heart Attack?
By Sara Butler
Heart attacks are quite common in the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 1 million Americans have a heart attack each year. The more traditional symptoms of a heart attack such as cold sweats, weakness, and chest pain, are well-known and easy to spot. But those aren't the only signs of a heart attack. In fact, there's a type of heart attack that can be a bit more subtle -- the silent heart attack. Here are a few of the signs you need to be aware of. They could save your life.
Fatigue
Doctors have said that they find many people who are on the verge of a heart attack often feel tired. So tired, in fact, that they have trouble completing their normal daily activities. This is because the blood flow to the heart is reduced during a heart attack, putting stress on the heart muscle which can leave you feeling drained.
If you feel this way and worry it might be a heart attack, get to your doctor or the emergency room and ask for an EKG to take a look at the health of your heart. Better to be safe than sorry.
Soreness or Pain
If you notice soreness or pain either of your arms, your chest, or your back, then it may be a sign of a silent heart attack. This is due to the fact that during a heart attack, the cells in the muscles of the heart begin to run out of oxygen. This will send pain signals to your nervous system to alert you to a possible problem.
This type of discomfort is usually accompanied by a heaviness in the chest, so don't ignore it. If a symptom you're experiencing is new, then always have it checked out.
Heartburn
Sometimes your heartburn is from that giant piece of lasagna you had for dinner -- and sometimes it's not. If you experience heartburn that's out of the ordinary, then it might be a sign of a heart attack. Make sure to have it checked out.
Upset Stomach
Symptoms and signs of a heart attack can sometimes mimic stomach issues such as vomiting, stomach upset, or nausea. If you're feeling unwell, see a doctor, especially if this is coupled with other possible signs of a heart attack.
Even if it's a false alarm, it's better to be safe than sorry when it comes to a heart attack. If you suspect in any way you're having heart attack symptoms -- silent or not -- then get to the emergency room right away!
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Bossier City, La.