Heart Attack Physical Symptoms
Knowing that you’re experiencing a heart attack early could be the difference between life and death.
Dr. Himachal Veligandla is a cardiologist with 35 years of experience from Florence, Kentucky. However, identifying common signs is often challenging. Sometimes the pain is strong and sudden, and other times you’ll experience very subtle symptoms.
A heart attack is what occurs when a coronary artery becomes suddenly blocked and blood stops flowing to the heart. There is usually pain or discomfort when this occurs and sometimes, even death. Although heart attacks can be fatal, WebMD emphasises an improvement in heart attack survival rates for patients who are hospitalized on time.
Dr. Himachal Veligandla discusses the following most common symptoms that are associated with a heart attack.
Chest Pain or Discomfort
This is the most common heart attack symptom and can occur while you’re resting or involved in some sort of physical activity. Some patients may experience excruciating pain while others may feel a slight discomfort that is characterized by tightness or pressure on the chest. This is a cause for concern if the sensation lasts for an extended period of time.
Pain that Begins to Spread to Your Arm
While having chest pain or discomfort can be common for people with varying health conditions, when the pain from the chest then starts to spread to your arm, this is a real cause for concern. This is a classic symptom of a heart attack and you should contact your physician immediately if you experience this symptom.
Swollen Feet, Legs and Ankles
One of your heart’s most important functions is to pump blood through the blood vessels of your circulatory system. If your feet, legs and ankles are swollen, this is a sign that the pumping isn’t as effective as it should be.
Having this symptom is not necessarily an indicator of heart failure. For instance, pregnant women often experience swelling to varying degrees on their ankles and feet. xHowever, if you’re experiencing this symptom in conjunction with the already discussed symptoms, you may be having a heart attack.
Feeling Light Hearted or Dizzy
This symptom on its own is not necessarily an indicator of heart failure. However, when you experience light heartedness together with chest pains or shortness of breath, you may be experiencing a heart attack.
Irregular Heartbeat
Discussing with your doctor about a suspected irregular heartbeat can help you get the immediate treatment that you need. While running or nervousness can increase your heartbeat’s pace, having a suspected irregular heartbeat for an extended period of time is an indicator of a potential heart problem.
It is essential to understand that heart attacks have diverse symptoms and affect individuals differently. Arming yourself with the above information from renowned cardiologist Dr. Himachal Veligandla could help you to immediately identify a heart problem and get the help you need.
