The subtle signs of a heart attack
A heart attack may seem to come out of nowhere, but often there are clues that may indicate you’re at risk.
Angela Turner, DO, a board-certified cardiologist at Bayfront Health in St. Petersburg, Florida, shares some of the lesser-known heart attack symptoms and when to seek help.
1. You’re increasingly short of breath
It’s not just that you’re suddenly “out of shape.” A decline in physical ability can be a warning sign of heart trouble.
2. You have upper body aches
Pain from a heart attack can travel to other parts of your body. “When your symptoms happen while you’re up and moving and then get better when you stop, that tends to point a finger toward a heart problem,” notes Dr. Turner.
3. You’re more tired than usual
“If you’ve been sleeping well and you’re suddenly extra tired, that may be a sign (to pay attention to),” Dr. Turner says.
4. You have indigestion that won’t go away
“We’ve seen patients who said they took a lot of antacids, and nothing treated their indigestion. It turned out to be a heart blockage,” Dr. Turner says.
When should I contact my physician?
Call 911 right away if you can’t breathe or feel like an elephant is sitting on your chest. If you suspect a heart attack, you want the emergency room — not urgent care.
“Listen to that feeling that says, ‘I know something’s not right,’” says Dr. Turner. It could save your life.
Medications Your Way
See our sources:
Warning signs of a heart attack: American Heart Association
Heart attack symptoms: Mayo Clinic
Heart attack symptoms in women: American Heart Association
