Heart attacks don’t always happen suddenly. In many cases, your body gives warning signs weeks in advance. Recognizing these early symptoms can help prevent a life-threatening event. Here are six signs that may appear up to a month before a heart attack:
Unusual Fatigue – Feeling excessively tired, even with normal activity, can signal reduced blood flow to the heart. This is especially common in women.
Shortness of Breath – Struggling to breathe during routine activities can indicate that your heart isn’t pumping effectively. This may happen even without chest pain.
Chest Discomfort – Mild pain, tightness, or pressure in the chest that comes and goes is an early warning sign. It may feel like indigestion or a burning sensation.
Dizziness and Cold Sweats – Poor circulation can cause dizziness, lightheadedness, or sudden sweating, even in cool temperatures.
Swelling in Legs or Feet – When the heart struggles to pump efficiently, fluid can build up in the lower body, leading to noticeable swelling.
Irregular Heartbeat – A racing or irregular heartbeat, especially when at rest, could indicate a heart problem. If this occurs with other symptoms, seek medical help.
If you notice any of these signs, don’t ignore them. Early medical attention can significantly reduce the risk of a heart attack and improve your chances of survival.
