Almost half a million of the world’s total number of heart attacks go undiagnosed as people mistake them for something less serious. This type of heart attack is called a mini heart attack or SMI (silent myocardial infarction) as its symptoms are not as intense as that of a major heart attack. Despite the mild symptoms, nearly 45% of heart attacks are mini heart attacks and as per research, they strike women less than women. If left untreated, even a mini attack can be life-threatening. So, what are the common mini heart attack symptoms? Let’s find out!
Symptoms of a heart attack
A mini heart attack does not have severe symptoms and the symptoms may often be temporary. Doctors refer to this condition as an NSTEMI (non-ST elevation myocardial infarction) and it is undoubtedly a medical emergency. So, it’s important to know the signs of a minor heart attack to receive proper treatment at the earliest.
1. Chest pain
Pain in the chest is among the most obvious silent heart attack signs, and if this happens, it is mandatory to get help. You may also experience heart palpitations with the sudden pain.
However, not all people report an intense pain. For some, the pain is bearable, and the discomfort is primarily in the center of the chest. Additionally, you may or may not feel pressure, fullness, or squeezing. These symptoms begin slowly, and they may keep disappearing and coming back. So, for mental satisfaction, get yourself evaluated by an accomplished physician.
2. Discomfort in different body parts
A heart attack does more than affecting the heart. Many people who had a mini heart attack complained of discomfort in upper body. This includes pain the back, neck, both arms, stomach, and jaw.
These mild heart attack warning signs may differ from one individual to another. For instance, some people may feel a heavy pressure on the back and others may notice a sharp pain. Either way, when you doubt you may have suffered a heart attack, there’s no point delaying the diagnosis.
3. Cold sweat and nausea
Waking up in the middle of the night in a cold sweat and having an urge to vomit can be the side effects of flue, but they can also be indicative of a minor heart attack. So, when you have nausea or lightheadedness, the best thing to do is go for a check-up. While these symptoms can be because of stress or flu, you will have the mental piece knowing that nothing is wrong with your cardiovascular system.
4. Unusual fatigue and difficulty breathing
Do you feel exhausted and breathless after taking the stairs or going for a brisk walk? Do you find it tiring to play with your dog or make your bed? Then your shortness of breath or exhaustion can be a sign that your heart is unable to pump enough blood to your body parts. When the blood flow to the heart is limited, over time it will affect heart health.
You can also feel lightheaded or dizzy and you may end up fainting. While both genders can experience this symptom, shortness of breath is among the most prominent early heart attack symptoms in women. So, instead of ignoring these subtle signs, book an appointment with a cardiologist.
Other signs of a silent heart attack
Besides these four main symptoms, there can be other signs of a minor heart attack such as indigestion and heartburn. If any of the above-mentioned symptoms persist, you will need emergency help and supportive medications to minimize the damage.
Risk factors of a silent heart attack
A mini heart attack is also known as a silent heart attack as it damages your body silently. If you fail to recognize the symptoms, your chances of a heart failure or perishing from coronary artery disease increases.
According to the American Heart Association, SMI causes scarring and can damage the heart. More complications arise as people do not realize after having an SMI. So, they do not opt for immediate care, thus raising the risk of another and a more powerful heart attack.
Cardiologists have confirmed that if people with mini heart attacks don’t get treated, the risks of a coronary artery disease increase significantly. In other words, a silent heart attack should be considered a loud signal that there is some underlying issue that requires your attention. If you do see a doctor, there can be another heart attack soon or some other heart disease.
To Sum Up
Now that we have shared the mini heart attack symptoms with you, you will be able to catch these early signs and rush to the nearest hospital. You must also be intrigued to learn if there are ways to reduce the chances of getting a heart attack.
Both minor and major heart attacks share some common risk factors like smoking, consuming alcohol regularly, eating lots of processed and oily foods, lack of physical activity, being overweight, high levels of cholesterol, high blood pressure, and diabetes. So, if you maintain a healthy lifestyle, eat nutrient-rich foods, and exercise daily, your heart will be happy and healthy. And if there is a history of heart attack in your family, you have more reasons to be careful.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the common symptoms of a mini heart attack?
The common mini heart attack symptoms are chest pain, burning sensation in the chest, dizziness, nausea, body ache (especially in the upper body), difficulty breathing, cold sweats, and tiredness.
Q: How do mini heart attack symptoms differ between men and women?
For both women and men, the most usual signs of a mild heart attack include chest pain and breathlessness. But women are more likely to experience some other symptoms that are not generally associated with heart ailments. These include vomiting, back ache, and shortness of breath.
