Warning signs of a heart attack: Symptoms in men, women, and the elderly, plus prevention tips

Symptoms of heart attack: The most common symptom of a heart attack is chest discomfort, usually felt at the center of the chest. It may feel like pressure, squeezing, burning, or tightness (Image: Canva)

A heart attack, or myocardial infarction, occurs when blood flow to the heart is blocked, depriving the heart muscle of oxygen. This blockage is usually caused by a buildup of plaque in the arteries. Without prompt medical intervention, the heart muscle can be permanently damaged, leading to severe complications or even death.

A heart attack is often associated with sudden and severe chest pain, but in reality, symptoms can vary widely from person to person. Many young people suffer from heart disease without realising it, leading to delays in diagnosis and treatment, says Dr Rohit Goel, Principal Consultant, Cardiology, Max Hospital Gurugram. “Most heart attack cases do not begin with dramatic symptoms like we see in movies. Instead, the warning signs may start subtly and progress over time. It is important to listen to your body and seek medical help if you experience any concerning symptoms,” he says.

Dr Goel shares the common symptoms of a heart attack:

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Chest pain or discomfort: The most common symptom of a heart attack is chest discomfort, usually felt at the center of the chest. It may feel like pressure, squeezing, burning, or tightness. This discomfort can also spread to the left arm, jaw, back, or even the right arm.

Unexplained suffocation: Some people experience a sensation of tightness in the chest or throat, making it difficult to breathe properly.

Shortness of breath: Becoming breathless at rest or with minimal physical activity could signal an underlying heart problem. This symptom should never be ignored.

Sweating and nausea: Excessive sweating, particularly cold sweats, can be an early sign of a heart attack. Feeling nauseous or the urge to vomit may also indicate heart distress.

Fatigue and weakness: A sudden feeling of extreme weakness without any clear cause can be a significant red flag. “Many patients mistake this for general fatigue, but unexplained exhaustion can be a warning sign of an impending heart attack,” says Dr Goel.

Symptoms in women, diabetics, and the elderly: According to Dr Goel, unlike men, women may experience atypical symptoms such as nausea, dizziness, shortness of breath, and extreme tiredness instead of the classic chest pain. “Similarly, people with diabetes and older adults may have milder symptoms, including indigestion, weakness, or mild chest discomfort, which can still be life-threatening. . If you or someone around you experiences any of these symptoms, especially if they persist for several minutes, seek medical help immediately. The earlier a heart attack is treated, the lower the risk of severe complications or death," he advises.

Also read | Heart attacks in young adults: Healthy lifestyle changes and preventive steps

Prevention tips:

A heart-healthy lifestyle is the best way to reduce the risk of heart disease. “Regular exercise, stress management, and monitoring of blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes can significantly lower heart attack risks. If you have a family history of heart conditions, visiting a cardiologist at least once a year is essential,” explains Dr Goel.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.