How Do We Know When We Have a Heart Attack?

What are the silent symptoms of a heart attack?

Although chest pain usually comes to mind when it comes to heart attack, it may not always be the only symptom. Yeditepe University Kosuyolu Hospital Cardiology Specialist Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mehmet Fatih YILMAZ pointed out that heart attack can also occur with extra-chest symptoms such as back pain, shortness of breath, palpitations and nausea. Pointing out that these atypical symptoms are more common in some groups such as women, the elderly and diabetic patients, our specialist pointed out that this can make the diagnosis process difficult and warned.
Cardiovascular diseases are among the leading diseases that cause loss of life both in Turkey and in the world. Yeditepe University Kosuyolu Hospital Cardiology Specialist, stating that approximately 300 thousand people have a heart attack every year in Turkey, emphasized that there has been an increase in heart attack cases seen in young ages, especially in recent years, our specialist gave the following information on the subject: "Recently, we observe an increase in heart attack cases in the 30s. The most common reasons for this are sedentary life, unhealthy diet, smoking and substance abuse at an early age and genetic predisposition.

Silent Heart Attack is an Important Risk in Diabetes Patients!

Stating that heart attacks occur with different symptoms and that chest pain is the most common symptom and the most common symptom known by patients, our specialist pointed out that in approximately 20-30 percent of patients, heart attacks may progress without chest pain. "Shortness of breath, cold sweats, nausea, pain in the back or jaw may be a harbinger of a heart attack. Especially in women, symptoms such as nausea and sweating can be prominent. In diabetic patients, unrecognized attacks, known as “silent heart attacks”, pose a serious risk. Since these patients present with a heart attack, the damage to the heart is irreversible and heart failure develops. Afterwards, patients may be admitted to hospital with complications such as rhythm disturbances or sudden death." 

If the Pressure in the Chest Increases with Exertion, Beware of Heart Attack!

Pointing to the increase in heart attack cases in the 30s in recent years, our specialist stated that symptoms other than chest pain can also stand out in young patients and continued his words as follows; "For example, the feeling of pressure in the chest that increases with exertion, burning, can often be confused with stomach problems. However, such complaints should be taken seriously. These symptoms may indicate a heart attack, especially if there are risk factors. They should be evaluated by a physician."

The First Hours of a Heart Attack are Critical'

Emphasizing that the first hours, even minutes, are critical in a heart attack, our expert said, "Every passing minute increases heart damage. Early diagnosis and rapid intervention can prevent damage to the heart. Especially if these complaints started suddenly and the patient's age and certain risk factors are present, of course, it may be a heart attack. Therefore, symptoms such as sudden onset of back pain, shortness of breath, palpitations or nausea should be taken seriously, especially if there are risk factors such as diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol, smoking or family history of heart disease." He said. 

Complaints in Heart Attack Should Not Be Ignored

Stating that one should be careful about the unknown signs of a heart attack, Cardiology Specialist Assoc. Prof. Dr. Fatih YILMAZ drew attention to the importance of early diagnosis and concluded his words as follows: "Especially after the age of 40, people with risk factors such as diabetes, blood pressure, high cholesterol or smoking should not neglect their annual check-ups even if they do not have complaints. Ignoring complaints and consulting a doctor in case of any suspicion can be life-saving."