What Does a Heart Attack Look Like?

Senior Heart Health  |  February 19, 2025

What Every Senior in North Vancouver and West Vancouver Needs to Know About The Signs of a Heart Attack

What are the signs of a heart attack? For many, a heart attack is characterized by a sudden and intense pain that causes them to grip their chest.

The Signs of a Heart Attack FACTS – #DYK More than 1 million people suffer from a heart attack each year.

Although certain heart attacks occur suddenly, others may begin gradually with feelings of pain or discomfort. A person can experience symptoms for several hours before recognizing that they are having a heart attack.

Simple lifestyle changes can improve heart health and help deter the signs of a heart attack.

For those recovering from a heart attack, many activities can be beneficial to recovery. Activities such as sharing nutritious meals, staying physically active, and prioritizing positive mental well-being can decrease the likelihood of developing related problems.

Knowing the signs of a heart attack can save critical time, and it’s important to be aware:

#1. Chest discomfort:

Chest discomfort can manifest differently for individuals during a heart attack. While some may feel squeezing, others may experience general discomfort or a sense of fullness in the chest area.

#2. Pain or discomfort throughout the body:

A heart attack can cause pain or discomfort in various areas of the body, not just the chest. These symptoms may include soreness in the neck, arms, jaw, or back, and can occur simultaneously. It is worth noting that women are more prone to experiencing pain in the jaw and back during a heart attack compared to men.

#3. Shortness of breath:

Difficulty breathing is a common sign of a heart attack that often goes unnoticed. Those at risk for heart issues should be mindful of any sudden changes in their breathing, especially when accompanied by other symptoms.

#4. Nausea:

Other symptoms, such as lightheadedness, cold sweats, and vomiting, may not immediately come to mind as signs of a heart attack. However, they can still serve as warning signs for the onset of one.

Types of heart attacks:

• NSTEMI – NSTEMI, or non-ST segment elevation myocardial infarction, occurs when a coronary artery is significantly narrowed but not fully obstructed, resulting in reduced blood flow to the heart.
• Demand Ischemia: Another form of heart attack is demand ischemia, which occurs when there are no blockages in the arteries. This results when a person’s heart requires more oxygen than the body can provide.
• Silent Heart Attacks: Silent heart attacks, also known as asymptomatic heart attacks, may occur without the individual experiencing noticeable symptoms. Unlike traditional heart attacks, these types of incidents can take place without any awareness from the person affected.
• Coronary Artery Spasm: A coronary artery spasm occurs when the artery wall tightens, causing a restriction in blood flow.
• Cardiac Arrest: Cardiac arrest, also known as a heart stoppage, is not to be confused with a heart attack. This condition occurs when the heart ceases to beat caused by a heart attack or can occur independently.

Being vigilant about identifying the signs of a heart attack can play a crucial role in protecting the heart, brain, and body from harm. Whether you observe these symptoms in someone else or personally experience them, it is essential to dial 911 and seek prompt medical assistance.

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