- What Is an Asymptomatic Heart Attack?
An asymptomatic heart attack also called a silent heart attack, is one with no noticeable symptoms. Many people with a silent heart attack do not know they had one.
A blockage in one or more coronary arteries may cause a silent heart attack. This blockage prevents oxygen-rich blood from reaching the heart muscles. A silent heart attack is as severe as a symptomatic heart attack, leading to permanent damage to the heart or even death.
If you feel you may have had a silent heart attack, it is essential to see the best heart hospital in Delhi or at your preferred location immediately for treatment and further monitoring.
- The Symptoms of a Silent Heart Attack
The signs of a silent heart attack may be mild or nonexistent. They may also be unaccompanied by symptoms typically associated with a heart attack. The victim may not be aware that they have suffered a heart attack.
When you have a silent heart attack, you may experience symptoms such as:
- Flu-like symptoms
- You may be experiencing a sore chest or upper back muscle
- Feeling pain in your jaw, arms, or upper back
- Intense fatigue
- Indigestion
The following characterize symptomatic heart attacks:
- Pain in the chest that persists for more than a few minutes
- Breathing difficulties
- You are experiencing upper body discomfort
- Feeling lightheaded
- Having a cold sweat
- Vomiting and nausea
- Unexplained fatigue that lasts for a few days
- What Are the Risk Factors for Asymptomatic Heart Attacks?
The percentage of people who experience an asymptomatic heart attack is rising. And while these “silent” heart attacks may not show any symptoms, they can cause significant damage to the heart. So what are the risk factors for asymptomatic heart attacks?
- Age
You are more likely to experience asymptomatic heart attacks as you age. It is because the arteries stiffen, making it more problematic for blood to flow through them. Additionally, plaque can build up on the artery walls, leading to asymptomatic heart attacks.
However, new research suggests that age may not be a risk factor for asymptomatic heart attacks, as previously thought. This research shows that people of all ages can experience asymptomatic heart attacks and that the risk factors for these attacks are more complex than just age.
- Diabetes
While most people associate heart attacks with chest pain, shortness of breath, and sweating, many people with diabetes experience asymptomatic heart attacks. Diabetes is one of the leading risk factors for asymptomatic heart attacks.
Asymptomatic heart attacks are often detected through routine blood work or electrocardiograms (EKGs). If you have diabetes, getting regular checkups is essential so the best heart hospital in Delhi can monitor your heart health.
- Physical Inactivity
A sedentary lifestyle or lack of physical activity is a modifiable risk factor for asymptomatic heart attacks. It has become increasingly common for individuals to work at jobs that require them to sit in front of computers. In addition, they need to commute for extended periods either on public transportation or by automobile. A simple measure you can initiate to mitigate this risk factor is to move more. Choose the stairs over the elevator. If you sit at your desk for more than an hour, get up and take a five-minute walk every hour. Moving more is likely to reduce your risk of an asymptomatic heart attack.
- High Blood Pressure
Blood cannot flow smoothly through the body due to high blood pressure. Increased blood pressure can contribute to an asymptomatic heart attack by increasing the heart’s workload until it can no longer function adequately. You can lower your blood pressure by being more active and eating a balanced diet. However, people with chronic high blood pressure may require medication to manage their condition. A doctor should regularly examine you if you have high blood pressure and conduct regular stress tests to ensure that your heart is in good health.
- Being Overweight
Being overweight or obese is a major risk factor for experiencing an asymptomatic heart attack. A significant amount of extra weight can result in many health problems, including heart disease. A person who carries excess weight may experience heart strain and high blood pressure. You can lower your risk of an asymptomatic heart attack by losing weight if you are overweight or maintaining your weight at a healthy level.
- Conclusion
Asymptomatic heart attacks are a real risk for people over 40. The best way to safeguard yourself is to know your risk factors and make lifestyle changes. If you have any heart attack symptoms, seek medical attention immediately from the best heart hospital in Delhi.
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