
Drinking & Heart Disease
May 25, 2022
March 4, 2025
When it comes to heart health, the more you know, the better you can protect yourself. A heart attack doesn’t usually strike without warning—your body often sends subtle signals weeks or even months in advance. The key is to understand the early symptoms of heart attack and take action.
In this blog, we’ll discuss six signs of heart attack a month before the event. Along the way, we’ll explore the importance of early detection, how to identify risk factors, and when to seek medical attention.
A heart attack happens when the blood flowing to our heart is blocked. It most often happens due to a buildup of fatty deposits (plaque) in the coronary arteries, causing damage to the heart muscle and, if untreated, can be life-threatening.
But here’s the thing: not all heart attacks come with the dramatic chest-clutching pain we see in movies. In reality, heart attack symptoms can be much subtler, especially in women and individuals with certain risk factors like diabetes.
Early detection is critical. By recognising the pre-symptoms of a heart attack, you can seek medical help before the situation becomes critical.
Contrary to popular belief, heart attacks don’t always manifest themselves with intense chest pain. Often, the symptoms are quiet and easily overlooked.
Many patients initially think their early signs are minor issues like indigestion or stress, only to later realise their significance.
If you notice any of these symptoms and if they persist, it’s time to seek medical help.
This is the classic symptom, but it’s not always severe. You might feel pressure, squeezing, or a sense of fullness in the chest. This discomfort can come and can occur anytime.
Feeling out of breath during normal activities or even at rest could be an early warning sign. This happens because your heart isn’t pumping efficiently, leading to a reduced oxygen supply.
Unexplained fatigue, especially if it worsens over time, is a common heart attack warning sign. Many patients report feeling unusually tired even after mild exertion.
Heart pain doesn’t always stay in the chest. You might feel discomfort in your arms, neck, jaw, back, or stomach. Women, in particular, often report these symptoms.
Symptoms like nausea, indigestion, or stomach pain can sometimes signal a heart problem. These are often mistaken for gastrointestinal issues. The signs should not be ignored, especially if accompanied by other symptoms.
Difficulty sleeping or waking up feeling unrefreshed can be an early symptom of heart disease. Nighttime chest pain or shortness of breath could also indicate a problem.
While recognising symptoms is important, understanding and addressing your risk factors is equally critical. Some of the major risk factors for a heart attack are:
Lifestyle changes help lowering your risk of a heart attack. Here are a few ti
ps you can follow:
Preventive heart care helps patients identify and manage their risk factors effectively.
If you’re experiencing symptoms that could indicate a heart attack—whether mild or severe—it’s better to err on the side of caution.
Call emergency services immediately if you suspect a heart attack. Early intervention can save lives.
The earlier you seek help, the better your chances of recovery. Treatments like angioplasty and medications can minimise heart damage and improve long-term outcomes.
Advanced diagnostic capabilities to catch heart problems early. From non-invasive tests like 2D Echo to stress tests and more, with modern procedures like these, patient receives timely and accurate care.
There’s a persistent myth that heart attacks always come with crushing chest pain. While this can be true for some, many people experience less dramatic symptoms.
For example, women often report subtle signs like fatigue or jaw pain, which can be mistaken for other conditions. Understanding the symptoms and differentiating is crucial for early detection and treatment.
The idea of a heart attack can be scary, but with the right knowgedge and guidance, you can prevent it. By recognising the early warning signs of a heart attack, managing your risk factors, and seeking timely care, you can take control of your heart health.
Dr. Manjinder Sandhu is here to guide you every step of the way. From preventive care to advanced treatments, he is dedicated to helping you live a heart-healthy life.
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Manjinder Sandhu today and take the first step toward safeguarding your heart.
In his patient-centred cardiology approach, Dr Sandhu addresses the fears and complexities of heart treatment, ensuring credibility in medical guidance and emotional well-being throughout the healing process.