Did You Have A Silent Heart Attack?

A silent heart attacks increases your chances of having a fatal heart attack. Therefore, it is important that you are aware of your risk factors and the symptoms. If you are concerned about your health, here is what you need to know.  

What Puts You at Risk of a Silent Heart Attack?

The risk factors for a silent heart attack do not differ from a heart attack. The factors include a family history of heart disease and high blood pressure. In addition to these, other factors include:  

• High cholesterol 

• Obese or overweight 

• Smoker 

• Sedentary lifestyle 

In addition to these risk factors, your age, gender, other medical conditions, and race could play a role in how likely you are to experience a silent heart attack. For instance, diabetics are at a higher risk for a silent heart attack than non-diabetics. Older people are at a higher risk than younger people. 

If you believe you are at risk for a silent heart attack, talk to your doctor about steps you can take to lower your risk. Your doctor will assess your present condition and your risk factors and make recommendations. For instance, if you are diabetic, your doctor will likely recommend taking control of your blood sugar levels.  

What Are the Symptoms?

The symptoms of a silent heart attack are the same as a heart attack. For instance, you might experience shortness of breath, fatigue, and muscle aches. In addition to these symptoms, you might also experience an upset stomach, pain in the jaw or upper back, and excessive heartburn. Even though you might have some pain, it is not uncommon to have no pain at all when having a silent heart attack. 

If you suspect that you have had a silent heart attack, it is imperative that you seek medical attention immediately. Without treating, you could have a more serious heart event in the near future.  

Your doctor can determine if you experienced a heart attack through an EKG or MRI. For some, the symptoms can sometimes cause sufferers to believe they have the flu. If you have recently had a bout with the flu but were not diagnosed, get an examination now.  

With treatment, you can lower your risk of having a silent heart attack and other related ailments. Talk to your doctor, such as Barnes-Jewish St. Peters Hospital, about any concerns that you have and to learn more about monitoring your health at home.