A heart attack can be sudden. People may not be sure about the actual signs and symptoms of a heart attack. Stroke and heart attack are among leading causes of sudden death. Immediate medical attention is essential for patients of stroke, which affects the brain. It is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of stroke and heart attack for immediate treatment. Heart diseases are serious and need emergency responses. Prevention and awareness can significantly help prevent strokes and heart attacks. Some signs and symptoms that may precede a heart attack are as follows:

 

Discomfort in the Chest

Patients of heart attack may experience chest discomfort along with chest pain and pressure. Patients of heart disease may frequently face these symptoms. This discomfort may be at the center of the chest and can last for a few minutes. These signs indicate a heart attack and they may suddenly appear and then ease. These signs of discomfort may even be present in other parts of the body like the neck, arm, stomach, or back, apart from the heart. 

 

Shortness of Breath

Difficulty in breathing or shortness of breath is among symptoms of an impending heart attack. It may occur along with chest discomfort. According to a study conducted by NIH, 40 percent of women faced shortness of breath among symptoms of a heart attack. The symptoms are pronounced especially while engaged in daily tasks and while walking up stairs.

 

Fatigue

Fatigue is among the common symptoms of a heart attack. It is also indicative of various other heart diseases. Even patients of stroke may experience fatigue occasionally. Other signs like chest pain can accompany fatigue. The signs and symptoms can range from mild to severe and may last for several days. Fatigue is among commonly ignored signs indicating heart disease.

 

Indigestion

Indigestion may be among the symptoms associated with a heart attack. Since it is not one of the well-known signs of heart disease, it may cause confusion for the patients. It may be accompanied by other symptoms like short breath and chest pain. Excessive sweating and nausea can also be some associated signs. Other than this, stomach ache or diarrhea may be the signs experienced by women after a heart attack. Patients of heart disease may assume indigestion to be one of the signs of food poisoning.

 

Sweating

Excessive sweat is one of the common symptoms of a heart attack. It is often associated with heart diseases. This symptom is more frequently visible in women. Patients of heart disease may see it due to a stressful situation or during exercise. If patients experience signs like hot flashes or atypical sweating without any reason, it may be a warning sign of an impending heart attack. Signs like clammy palms may accompany the sweating.