The World Health Organization reports that ischaemic heart disease remains the leading cause of death worldwide, with cardiovascular diseases accounting for 8.9 million deaths in 2019.
Research suggests that in the days or even months before a heart attack, many people experience early warning signs known as prodromal symptoms.
A study published in the National Library of Medicine notes that these symptoms are often missed by both patients and primary care clinicians.
These may include chest pain, chest heaviness or burning, palpitations, fatigue, sleep disturbance, shortness of breath (SOB), dizziness, anxiety, sudden hot or cold sensations, back pain, and vomiting.
- Fatigue
Feeling unusually tired, sleepy, or drained to the point where even simple tasks become difficult can be a warning sign. One possible cause is reduced blood flow to the heart, often due to narrowed arteries. Persistent fatigue may appear when heart problems develop. - Shortness of breath
Shortness of breath occurs when the lungs do not receive enough oxygen for the body to function properly. If you or someone around you experiences this, it is advisable to seek medical attention, as it may signal a potential heart issue. According to WebMD, “shortness of breath and feeling tired can be signs of [heart failure.]”
Heart failure refers to the heart’s reduced ability to pump blood effectively throughout the body. - Weakness
Sudden, unexplained weakness may be a sign that the body is under stress and that lifestyle or health factors need attention.
- Dizziness and cold sweats
Both dizziness and cold sweats can result from poor circulation and should not be ignored. - Flu or cold-like symptoms
Many people who have suffered a heart attack report experiencing flu-like symptoms in the days leading up to the event. - Chest pressure
A common warning sign is a feeling of pressure in the chest that gradually intensifies over time. - Swollen feet
In cases of congestive heart failure, the heart’s lower chambers may struggle to pump blood efficiently. This can cause blood to back up in the legs, ankles, and feet, leading to swelling or edema.
To learn more about heart attacks and early warning signs, refer to the video below in which Dr. Travis Stork discusses the symptoms of a heart attack.
In addition, see another helpful video on the Heart Attack Cough (Self Aid) demonstration.