A heart attack occurs when there’s a blockage in the blood supply to your heart, typically viewed as a sudden emergency. Nevertheless, studies reveal that more than 50% of cases involve warning signs up to a month before the event. Recognizing these symptoms is crucial for seeking prompt medical care.
Harvard Medical School reports that a survey of over 500 female heart attack survivors revealed that 95% noticed warning signs “about a month prior” to the attack. These red flag symptoms may manifest in the days, weeks, or months, with individual timing variations.
Monitor for Fatigue
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Unusual fatigue ranks as the primary early warning sign, affecting 71% of heart attack survivors surveyed. It encompasses extreme exhaustion, diminished motivation, and overwhelming tiredness. Everyday tasks may suddenly feel arduous due to added stress on your heart, which strains to pump blood if there’s a blockage, leaving you drained.
Besides fatigue, other early indicators may involve chest tightness or breathlessness during physical activity. Breathlessness can also result from stress.
More Prevalent in Women
Heart Attack
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Research indicates that more women than men experience these early warning signs. Yet many fail to seek medical attention, assuming these symptoms will subside quickly.
Signs of a Heart Attack
Heart Attack
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In addition to early warning signs that can manifest days or months before an attack, it’s vital to recognize symptoms during a heart attack. These include:
