Annually, about 695,000 Americans die from cardiac arrest, as per the CDC, but many of these can be prevented with the right help. It's crucial to always consult a doctor if you suspect any heart-related issues. Heart problems are one of the most common causes of death in the USA, and globally, too many people die from undetected heart issues.
However, the risk of dying from cardiac arrest can actually be reduced. About half of all patients who suffer a sudden cardiac arrest receive several warning signals from their body up to a month before it happens, as reported by the German health magazine Gut Für Dich, according to Pensionist.
Symptoms of a Heart Attack
Fatigue
Feeling tired occasionally is normal, but if you're exhausted by normal activities like shopping, it's a good idea to see a doctor.
If you get quickly winded with minor physical exertion, consider an EKG scan, as stress can lead to cardiac arrest.
Chest Pressure
One of the most common warning signs of an impending cardiac arrest is chest pressure. The pressure isn't necessarily felt only in the chest. The pain can radiate to the arm – often the left arm, but it can also be felt in the throat, neck, jaw, back, or stomach.
Usually, the pain lasts for at least fifteen minutes.
Shortness of Breath
During a heart attack, blood vessels contract, resulting in the lungs not receiving enough blood. This can cause shortness of breath before a heart attack.
If you suddenly have difficulty breathing, it should be a cause for alarm.
Exhaustion
Feeling weak and exhausted might be due to muscles not receiving enough blood. It can be a sign of an impending heart attack.
Excessive Sweating and Dizziness
Excessive sweating can be a sign of heart problems. Dizziness can also result from less blood flow to the brain than normal. Experiencing these symptoms warrants consulting a doctor.
Cold or Flu
It’s normal to catch a cold or the flu. However, few know that symptoms of a cold can be an indication that one is at risk of cardiac arrest within a month.
It's worth paying attention to – especially if you have any of the other symptoms.
In general, there are vastly different symptoms of heart problems from person to person - especially noticeable differences between men and women.
But by being aware of these six warning signals, more lives might be saved in the future.
