Our body gives us some warning signs which we often ignore. If we recognize them and get to the hospital on time, our lives can be saved.
Let us discuss the warning signs of myocardial ischemia or simpler terms heart attack. The most common sign is chest pain. This is a very common symptom. It is most common reasons for which patients reach emergency department or seek medical attention. But what does chest pain from a heart look like?
A feeling of heaviness, as if something is placed on the chest. A feeling of pressure, tightness, squeezing. This pain gradually increases and is not relieved even with rest. You can't pinpoint the location of this pain. It can spread from the chest to the arms, neck, jaw, shoulders and back. This type of chest pain is called angina or cardiac chest pain.
It can also be accompanied by shortness of breath, breathlessness initially while doing some work or exertion, later on even while sitting without doing any activity that is at rest. Cold sweats can be another symptom. Some unusual symptoms may include: abdominal pain, vomiting, nausea, feeling anxious and restless.
People often dismiss these chest pain symptoms as gas or fatigue.
Gastric chest pain will often have a burning sensation, usually located on centre of the chest. It increases by lying down post meal and is relieved by antacids. Still it should be evaluated and heart disease should be ruled out.
But remember, “time is muscle”. The longer the heart vessels remain blocked, reducing the blood supply to the heart, the faster the heart muscle will die. It is life threatening and should not be missed. Therefore, it is important to understand these warning signs and, if you experience these symptoms immediately go to the nearest hospital and get yourself checked.
Have a healthy heart.
Dr Pooja Baradia
MD Medicine