A heart attack, also referred to as a myocardial infarction, occurs when the normal flow of blood to the heart is abnormally interrupted; it can result in permanent heart muscle damage. Every year, over 1 million people in the United States suffer from heart attacks, report medical professionals at the Cleveland Clinic in Ohio. Talk with your doctor about how you can identify the early warning signs for a heart attack.
Chest Pain or Discomfort
One of the most frequent early warning signs for a heart attack is pain or discomfort near the center of the chest, warn health officials at the American Heart Association. Sensations of chest pain--also called angina--can occur intermittently and may arise several hours before the heart attack. Chest discomfort may be characterized as sensations of squeezing, heaviness, numbness, tightness or fullness and can mimic the symptoms of heartburn or indigestion. Seek immediate emergency medical care if you experience chest pain or discomfort to prevent further medical complications from a heart attack.
Body Pain or Discomfort
Sensations of pain or discomfort within the chest can radiate to other regions of the body, including the back, arms, shoulders, jaw, neck or stomach, explains the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. Body discomfort can be mild to severe and may cause the affected body regions to feel achy or heavy.
Breathing Difficulties
Breathing difficulties can be an early warning sign of a heart attack. Breathing difficulties can occur in conjunction with or prior to the development of chest pain in certain patients. You can feel out-of-breath after minor physical exertion, such as walking down the hall or up a flight of stairs. Painful sensations within your chest can also make it difficult for you to inhale and exhale normally.
Stomach Upset or Dizziness
Certain people can experience stomach upset or dizziness as early warning signs for a heart attack. Stomach symptoms can include nausea or vomiting and may occur in conjunction with lightheadedness, weakness or increased anxiety. You may also begin to develop a cold sweat that makes your hands or body feel clammy or sticky.
Fatigue
Excessive fatigue can be one of the earliest warning signs for a heart attack--especially in women. In a study of women who had experienced a heart attack, the Cleveland Clinic noted that approximately 80 percent of these patients reported experiencing fatigue, sleep disturbances, anxiety, breathing difficulties or indigestion for at least one month before having a heart attack. Symptoms of fatigue can make it difficult for you to remain focused and alert through the day, which may negatively impact your ability to complete work or home responsibilities.
