It is often believed that a heart attack occurs suddenly, without warning. But often, some warning signs can manifest for several days, or even several weeks before. Which ones precisely? Let’s take stock with Dr. Gérald Kierzek, emergency doctor.
Fatigue, chest pain, breathlessness … these symptoms to monitor
Dr. Gérald Kierzek recalls in the preamble that the symptoms depend “individuals, the extent of the infarction and the myocardial territory concerned“But one thing is certain: you absolutely should not ignore them.
Of course, all symptoms do not necessarily arrive at the same time, and even less spectacular. However, some regularly return to patients affected by a myocardial infarction, as in particular:
- Unusual fatiguepersistent, unrelated to intense physical or mental activity. “This can be linked to a decrease in oxygenation of the heart“Explains Dr. Kierzek;
- A difficulty in breathingeven at rest. This alert sign often reflects a lack of blood circulation;
- Intermittent chest painin pressure or in burning, sometimes radiating towards the left arm, jaw or back;
- Palpitationsirregular beats or sudden acceleration of heart rate, sometimes harmless, but not to neglect;
- Cold sweatsaccompanied or not of nausea or dizziness, apart from any effort;
- Digestive disordersespecially in women: stomach burns, vomiting or abdominal pain;
- A feeling of general discomfortsometimes described as a “vague discomfort, diffuse anxiety or a feeling of imminent danger”.
These demonstrations can occur several weeks before the infarction, in isolation or repeatedly. “”Early consultation makes it possible to avoid the crisis or to limit its gravity “insists the doctor.
What to do without delay in case of doubt
Even if the symptoms seem vague, taking them into account is essential, especially if you have family history or risk factors (diabetes, hypertension, tobacco, cholesterol …).
Dr. Gérald Kierzek recommends a quick consultation with a doctor, or to call 15 in an emergency. Objective: to make a complete heart balance that will include several examinations, including an electrocardiogram (ECG), a dosage of troponin (cardiac suffering marker), an echocardiography, an effort test or coronarography depending on the case.
“”In case of brutal and intense chest pain, compose immediately the 15 or 112“Once again insists the doctor. Because beyond 15 minutes of persistent pain, every minute counts to preserve the heart muscle.
It is possible to act before it is too late
When the signs are identified in time, preventive management can be implemented.
This can range from simple reinforced medical supervision to hospitalization in the event of an imminent acute coronary syndrome, sometimes with preventive angioplasty if the arteries are already partially obstructed. Not to wait for the crisis to react can really change the outcome of the scenario.