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Spot the Subtle Signs of a Silent Heart Attack

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Engaging in a conversation around heart health is a vital part of maintaining consistent wellness in our senior years. Yet, a common misconception around heart attacks can be a significant barrier to understanding. Hollywood often portrays heart attacks as dramatic, intense events, complete with chest-clutching and collapsing. In reality, however, heart attacks are frequently subtle and may even go unnoticed. Known as silent heart attacks, these instances account for approximately 20%-50% of all heart attacks, according to the American Heart Association. Recognizing the signs of a silent heart attack is pivotal, given their prevalence.

Understanding Silent Heart Attacks

Silent heart attacks occur when blood-carrying arteries become blocked, depriving the heart muscle of oxygen and nutrients. Eduardo Marban, M.D., of the Smidt Heart Institute at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, explains that this is essentially the same process as a more obvious heart attack. However,

> “The only difference is the problem goes unnoticed. It’s not necessarily that there were no symptoms; it may just be that the patient didn’t recognize them as heart symptoms and wasn’t concerned.”

Misattributed Symptoms

When silent heart attacks occur, symptoms can often be mistaken for less critical issues. It is not unusual for people to write off their symptoms as indigestion, a muscular injury, fatigue, or simply feeling run-down.

Additional Warning Signs

Despite the unassuming nature of these symptoms, there are other warning signs to be aware of. Individuals may experience shortness of breath, a general state of discomfort, sleep disruption, nausea, sweating, dizziness, and an overall feeling of unease. Robert Lager, M.D., an interventional cardiologist, advises,

“If you experience any of these symptoms, don’t sit around and wonder” what could be wrong. “Time is muscle. The longer one waits to get evaluated, the more likely that there will be irreversible damage.”

Silent Heart Attacks in Certain Populations

Interestingly, silent heart attacks are not always accompanied by noticeable symptoms. Certain populations, including diabetics with neuropathy, women, and older adults, are more likely to experience a truly silent heart attack without any warning signs.

Misdiagnosis in Healthcare Settings

Silent heart attacks don’t just fool patients; they can also challenge healthcare providers’ diagnostic abilities. Symptoms such as shortness of breath may be incorrectly attributed to pulmonary issues. Similarly, arm or shoulder pain can be misdiagnosed as an orthopedic issue. Lager adds that,

“So, there are lots of different forms of symptoms that are referred pain from the heart that can be very confusing and sometimes can be misleading.”

Understanding the reality and prevalence of silent heart attacks is a critical step in maintaining heart health as we age. By familiarizing ourselves with the subtle signs and potential misattributions, we can ensure a proactive approach to our wellbeing. Remember the importance of swift action in the face of potential heart issues, because “time is muscle”. Staying informed, alert, and responsive to our bodies’ messages is the best way to safeguard our most vital organ.

Let us know what you think, please share your thoughts in the comments below.

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1 Comment

1 Comment

  1. corey brown

    July 4, 2024 at 11:37 am

    I think misdiagnosis, is a situation, that can be relieved by a doctor paying attention to the patients physical history! Dr’s base their knowldge on a one time visit or test. Dr’s don’t take the time, nor do want to take the time to hear what a patient has to say, because the patient is not a Doctor, or is not as educated as the Dr. may be or is. So many illness’s have symptoms that mimic other illness’s, personally, I don’t feel I’m safe or in caring hands when i see my medical provider! Not any more! Too much money to be made. Big Pharma, the medical Cabal, just to name a few! After all, “There’s no money in healthy people”

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