Sometimes, heart attacks happen suddenly and without warning. A lot of the time, however, there are warning signs. It is important that everyone recognizes these signs and take action. Because with heart attacks, the earlier you seek medical attention, the better. If you are over 60 years old and overweight, diabetic, hypertensive, or have high cholesterol, you are particularly susceptible to heart attacks. Watch out for the following:
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- Chest pain
This is the most common sign of a heart attack. The pain usually lasts for some minutes and it may be similar to having a heavy load dropped on your chest. Sometimes, the pain is said to come with a pinching/burning sensation. Men are more likely than women to feel chest pain before a heart attack.
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- Nausea, indigestion, or stomach pain
These symptoms are more common among women. Sadly, there are many other reasons for a person to feel nauseated or have stomach pains, so these symptoms are a bit delicate. However, if you feel them in addition to other symptoms on this list, you need to see a doctor ASAP.
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- Irregular heartbeat
You know the way your heart beats fast when you’re nervous or excited? That’s natural. If your heart beats that way for no reason, there may be cause for concern; especially if it happens frequently. The same goes for unnatural feelings of exhaustion and dizziness.
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- Body pains
Pain that spreads from the chest to the arm, jaw, neck, or back is a warning sign of a heart attack. This symptom is also more common in women, but men experience it too.
If you live/work in Texas and you feel any of the following symptoms, visit the Internal Medicine Diagnostic Center in Magnolia. We provide top-quality primary care for cardiovascular diseases. Call 281-252-8600 for inquiries or to make an appointment.