We often think that heart attack is always accompanied by sharp pain, heaviness in chest and lack of breath. These are classic symptoms of heart attack. But do you know that these symptoms are not seen in every heart attack? Heart attacks that do not have typical symptoms are called “silent heart attack”. They do not have a significant chest pen, but they are equally dangerous, because they are often confused with other diseases and are not treated on time.
An example is the silent myocardial ischemia, in which oxygen-rich blood reaches the heart. During this time there are no pain or other symptoms, but may be abnormal, such as ECG or echocardiogram.
What do doctors say
Dr. Sunil Wadhwa, Associate Director, Cardiology, Max Hospital, Gurugram says that the number of sudden cardiac events is increasing and it is a matter of concern for public health. This means that it is very important to raise awareness and to improve screening and treatment, especially in AT-Risk Population.
5 things to keep in mind
- Heart attack may occur when sleeping or waking up.
- Silent ischemia is a strong indicator of mortality; About 70–80 per cent incidents occur without symptoms.
- Due to lack of pain, patients do not seek medical help on time, which increases morbidity and mortality.
- Women, elderly, patients with diabetes mellitus, and who have previously underwent heart attack or re -treatment, are more prone.
- Evidence of silent myocardial ischemia is found in 15 to 30 percent of patients and 30 to 40 percent of patients with unstable angina have been found first myocardial infarction.
Symptoms of silent heart attack (flu -like)
- Chest or back pain
- Jaw, hand or top pain
- Indigestion
- Shortness of breath
- Round head
- Uncomfortable body
- Cold sweat
- Nausea and vomiting
- Fatigue without reason for several days
Reason
The main reason for silent heart attack is to become lipid-rich plaques and become a clot in coronary arteries. Other risk factor includes:
- Excess weight (body mass index 25 plus)
- Unhealthy lifestyle
- Diabetes Mellitus, High Blood Pressure, High Cholesterol
- Excessive intake of processed food
- Chronic anxiety, depression
- Tobacco intake (cigarette, vepping)
- Preclampsia in pregnancy
- Infection: UTI, Pneumonia
- Coronary Vasospasm, vasculitis, injury, medicines like cocaine
- Severe anemia
- Obstructive sleep apnea
Clinical presentation
- Type i: Without symptoms, first myocardial infarction
- Type II: Without symptoms, first symptomatic myocardial ischemia
- Type III: It is known about it, symptomatic or asymptomatic coronary artery disease
Diagnostic check
ECG, stress tests and blood tests can help identify silent heart attacks. If you are at risk or feel the symptoms mentioned above, it is necessary to get a doctor evaluated immediately.
Also read- Does human story end after death, oncologist told what happens after death?
Disclaimer: This information is based on the opinion of research studies and experts. Do not consider it an alternative to medical advice. Before adopting any new activity or exercise, consult your doctor or concerned specialist.
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