6 Ways Your Body Tells You That You’re About to Have a Heart Attack

Our body sends us warning signs and we'd be wise to listen to it.

Heart disease is one of the leading cause of death in the United States killing more than 375,000 Americans each year. Around the world, heart attacks brought on by heart disease down 17.3 million people a year as well.

With these alarming facts, it is highly advisable to listen to what your body is telling you if you are at risk for cardiovascular disease. Luckily for us, our body alerts us as to when a heart attack is on the horizon.

Here are the six signs to watch out for:

#1. Weakness

Source: Health Tap

One key symptom to look out for, general body weakness is caused by narrowing arteries. With lesser blood flow and lack of circulation, muscles start to weaken, as well.

#2. Dizziness and Cold Sweats

Source: Med Health Daily

Beware of this red flag. Clogged arteries that cause poor blood flow also cuts off blood circulation to the brain. You’ll start feeling cold and clammy as a result.

#3. Chest Pressure

Source: Wise Geek Health

Watch out for any sign of chest pressure which alerts you to the fact you need to see a doctor straightaway. Chest pressure or any chest discomfort is one major sign a heart attack is coming on soon, especially if it increases as time goes by. This pain also has the tendency to radiate to the arms, back and shoulders.

#4 Cold and Flu-like Symptoms

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While colds and flu are common in and by themselves, if you are at high risk for a heart attack due to a high-fat, high-cholesterol diet and a stressful lifestyle beware of colds and flu. These symptoms precede a heart attack.

#5 Fatigue

Source: Energetic Nutrition

Constant fatigue is another heart attack red flag. Low blood flow to the heart means it has to pump harder than usual, and this leaves you feeling overtired most of the time.

#6 Shortness of Breath

Source: Buzzle

With narrowed arteries and decreased blood flow, your lungs don’t get enough blood to work properly. This results in huffing and puffing with even mild to moderate exertion.

Our body is amazing enough that it warns us of impending doom. It’s always in our best interest to listen to what it tells us because the messages it sends can save our lives.

H/T: Health Eternally