Table of Contents Show
Every year, both men and women are at risk of facing a serious problem known as a heart attack. This condition, which can be life-threatening, may occur suddenly and have symptoms that are not easily recognizable. In the following article, we will discuss the differences between a hidden heart attack and a regular one, as well as ways to recognize it.
How a regular heart attack manifests
Every day, thousands of lives are lost to myocardial infarction. This condition can affect not only the elderly but also seemingly healthy young people. Generally, a heart attack is characterized by the following symptoms:
- Disruption of heart rhythm;
- Sudden pain in the chest;
- Depressed state and fear of death;
- Prolonged pain in the heart area.
Signs of a hidden heart attack
The symptoms of a heart attack listed above are widely recognized, and patients tend to seek medical assistance promptly upon their appearance. Nevertheless, some individuals may experience signs of a concealed heart attack that are more challenging to identify. Presented below are several indications that are typical of this condition.
Severe abdominal pain.
Typically, a heart attack is characterized by intense chest pain that can radiate to the left shoulder and arm. However, in women, a hidden myocardial infarction can manifest as abdominal pain, which is often localized in the epigastric area and under the ribs on the right side. Additionally, heartburn, severe nausea, vomiting, and flatulence can also be present.
The abdominal form of a heart attack can be caused by both internal and external factors. Some of these factors include:
- Smoking and a sedentary lifestyle;
- Obesity;
- Hypertension;
- Diabetes and other endocrine disorders;
- Inflammatory diseases.
Tachycardia
If a hidden heart attack takes on an arrhythmic form, pain may not be present at all. Instead, tachycardia, characterized by a heart rate of at least 90 beats per minute, becomes the primary symptom. However, it’s worth noting that tachycardia alone doesn’t always indicate a heart attack. It can also result from excessive physical exertion, severe stress, or the use of certain medications.
Severe cough with shortness of breath
A further indication of a concealed heart attack is coughing, which can be accompanied by pinkish sputum and shortness of breath. The patient may find it difficult to breathe and feel more comfortable in a semi-sitting position.
It’s also worth noting that coughing can persist in individuals with chronic heart failure, especially during physical or emotional stress, and become more pronounced at night. We have previously discussed in greater detail the reasons behind coughing unrelated to a cold.
Severe edema
The rapid onset of edema, along with pronounced weakness and shortness of breath, can also indicate a concealed heart attack. To detect heart edema, consider the following factors:
- Swelling tends to occur in the evenings for multiple consecutive days.
- The skin takes on a cool, bluish hue.
- Swellings on the skin are fairly firm and palpable.
Failure to seek medical attention promptly and address a worsening condition may lead to ascites, characterized by the buildup of fluid in the abdominal cavity, which can compress internal organs.
Jaw pain
Jaw pain is often caused by advanced dental problems. However, sometimes it may indicate the development of more serious illnesses, even a heart attack.
In this case, in addition to unpleasant sensations in the jaw, the patient also experiences other symptoms that indicate heart problems. Among them:
- shortness of breath;
- cold sweat;
- nausea or vomiting;
- rapid heartbeat;
- dizziness and severe weakness.
If at least two of these symptoms persist for more than 5 minutes, emergency medical assistance should be called as soon as possible.
Fainting spell
The collapsoid manifestation of a concealed heart attack entails abrupt onset of vertigo and visual impairment, in conjunction with a decline in blood pressure and a syncopal episode. Additionally, the patient may encounter discomfort, irregular heartbeat, heightened or diminished pulse rate, and profuse perspiration (excessive sweating).
Although fainting can be an indication of a heart attack, it is not a conclusive indicator as other ailments can provoke it. Constricted or compressed carotid artery, orthostatic hypotension or hypertension are some of the examples of alternative factors that can bring about syncope.
Slight increase in body temperature
An elevated body temperature ranging from 37-38 degrees Celsius, also known as subfebrile temperature, could potentially signify an obscured heart attack. Associated symptoms include muscle aches, headaches, weakness, and shivering. Nonetheless, autoimmune diseases, gastrointestinal disorders, and hormonal changes in females can also cause a decline in well-being. If subfebrile temperature persists for more than a day, it is essential to seek medical attention from professionals. They will diagnose the underlying cause of the condition and provide the appropriate treatment.
Responses