5 warning signs of a heart attack that you may not know

Just as no two hearts beat the same way, no two heart attacks are the same, even for the same person. It's different for everyone, and the warning signs a person experiences before a heart attack can vary greatly from person to person.

Heart attacks occur when one or more of the coronary arteries, which supply blood to the heart, become blocked. This means that blood and oxygen cannot reach the heart and damage the heart muscle.

Chest discomfort or pain (also called angina) is the most common warning sign of a heart attack. It may feel like uncomfortable pressure, pain, numbness, tightness, or a feeling of fullness in the chest. Many people are familiar with this warning sign because it's the classic sign often shown on TV or in movies. Sometimes people describe the pain or discomfort as "an elephant sitting on my chest". It may spread to the arms, neck, jaw, or back and may last several minutes or come and go in waves. However, it's important to remember that in some people, a life-threatening heart attack can start slowly with only minor pain or discomfort. In other cases, people may not feel any chest pain.

Did you know that there are less obvious and less common warning signs that people may experience before a heart attack? Here are five you might not expect:

1. Dizziness, lightheadedness, or feeling faint

If you suddenly lose your balance on your feet, the room starts spinning, or your vision starts to blur, your body may be warning you of an impending heart attack. Tell someone immediately if you have these symptoms.5 warning signs of a heart attack that you may not know

2. Nausea, indigestion or vomiting

Indigestion, nausea, and vomiting can be symptoms of many conditions, but it's important not to ignore them as they can be a warning sign of a life-threatening heart attack. The best way to be sure what you are experiencing is critical is to seek emergency help. Medical tests can diagnose the cause of your symptoms, and if it's a heart attack, the sooner you get help, the better.

3. Shortness of breath

Shortness of breath can be caused by physical activity, extreme temperatures or high altitude. It can also be a common symptom of many other medical conditions. However, chest tightness, shortness of breath, or shortness of breath with or without chest discomfort can sometimes be a warning sign of a heart attack. If you experience shortness of breath that is not normal for you, it is best to seek medical attention immediately.

4. Sweating or cold sweats

Sweating or a cold sweat, i.e. a sudden chill in the body, regardless of the ambient temperature, can also be warning signs of a heart attack.

5. There are no warning signs

Finally, it is entirely possible to experience a "silent heart attack", during which you may not have any symptoms. In this case, your heart attack may not be detected later.

It is possible to experience several of these symptoms or just one. They usually last at least 10 minutes and can come on suddenly or get worse over time.

And did you know that women are more likely than men to experience the above symptoms other than chest pain, as well as feeling tired or fatigued? Learn more about warning signs and risk factors specific to women.

Here are some heart-healthy tips to reduce your risk of a heart attack:

• No smoking

• Regular exercise

• Eat a heart-healthy diet

• Maintain a healthy body weight

• Reduce your alcohol consumption

• Take care of your mental health

• Manage high blood pressure and cholesterol

• For people with diabetes, monitor blood sugar.

The warning signs of a heart attack vary and it is important to recognize them because ignoring them could be fatal. Knowing the symptoms and acting quickly can increase your chances of survival. If you or anyone else has symptoms of a heart attack, call 911 immediately and request an ambulance.