When we think of a heart attack, images of sudden chest pain, clutching at the chest, or being rushed to the emergency room often come to mind. But in reality, not all heart attacks come with these dramatic symptoms. In fact, a large number of heart attacks are classified as silent heart attacks, meaning they occur with little to no recognizable signs. Despite their quiet nature, these events can cause just as much damage to the heart muscle as a traditional heart attack.
A silent heart attack happens when blood flow to a part of the heart is briefly blocked. Because the symptoms may be mild or even nonexistent, the individual may not seek medical care or may attribute the symptoms to something far less serious. This delay in diagnosis or treatment can lead to long-term damage and an increased risk of future heart issues.
Common symptoms that might go unnoticed include:
- Mild or dull chest discomfort, often mistaken for indigestion or heartburn
- Unexplained fatigue, especially if it occurs during normal activities
- Discomfort in the jaw, upper back, or arms
- Nausea, lightheadedness, or a cold sweat
These signs can be subtle and easy to dismiss, especially for individuals with other risk factors such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, obesity, or a family history of heart disease. Lifestyle habits like smoking, inactivity, and poor diet can also increase the likelihood of having a silent heart attack.
The biggest danger of a silent heart attack is that, without being diagnosed, the person does not receive treatment or make the lifestyle changes necessary to protect their heart. Over time, this can lead to more serious complications such as heart failure or a more severe heart attack in the future.
If you have risk factors for heart disease or have experienced any unusual symptoms that don’t seem to have a clear explanation, it may be time to take a closer look at your heart health. At Korban Cardiology, we provide diagnostic testing, heart screenings, and individualized care to help detect issues before they become emergencies. Silence does not mean harmless, and early detection could make all the difference.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. For personal medical concerns, contact Korban Cardiology directly.