Heart attacks are one of the leading causes of death in Kenya, and has been for many years. One of the best ways to prevent a heart attack is to spot the symptoms before they happen, sometimes a month or so in advance.
The problem is that many people who are at risk of having a heart attack are not even aware of the stress they are putting on their body. A heart attack happens when there is a buildup of plaque in your arteries. This buildup causes a loss of blood supply to your heart, which in turn leads to a heart attack.
Essentially a heart attack is dead tissue that is killed during the loss of blood flow. This dead tissue results in extreme pain and pressure, both of which are experienced at the moment your body your heart is attacked. Cardiovascular health is very important. After all your heart is responsible for a hefty amount of work that keeps you alive.
Here is a list of the 6 most common symptoms you should look out for:
1. COLD SWEATS AND DIZZINESS
Due to the poor circulation your brain will not get the proper blood flow it needs to operate appropriately. This is a sign that you are in extreme danger, and you should seek medical attention immediately.
2. CHEST PRESSURE
This is one of the most noticeable signs of them all. This pressure is a clear sign that an attack is near. Many people also ignore this pressure, claiming that it’s nothing or that it’s normal, but it’s not. Get checked out immediately if you are experiencing pressure.
3. WEAKNESS
Becoming increasingly weak is another dangerous sign that you may have a heart attack. This is because you arteries have continued to narrow. This doesn’t allow the proper blood flow throughout the body.
4. COLD AND FLU SYMPTOMS
Many people have recorded developing cold and flu like symptoms right before an attack happens. These are very scary signs, and once again contact your doctor immediately.
5. FATIGUE
If you are feeling tired and drowsy all the time it could be a result in the loss of blood flow to your heart. This happens when there is a buildup of plaque in your arteries, the same arteries that carry blood to and from the heart.
6. SHORTNESS OF BREATH
Due to the loss of blood flow your lungs are going to suffer as well. When not enough blood gets to your lungs you will not be able to take in enough air, which is related to shortness of breath. If you are having trouble breathing you should contact your doctor immediately, this is a very bad sign.
If you experience any of the above symptoms of a heart attack you must get yourself up and to the doctor. After all, the best way to prevent a heart attack is to catch wind of the symptoms before it happens. Do whatever it is you can to ensure you have good cardiovascular health; it could be the difference between life and death.
