Cardiologist Poskakalova named atypical symptoms of a heart attack

Myocardial infarction does not always present with severe pressing or burning pain behind the breastbone, cardiologist Anastasia Poskakalova told Mail.ru.

According to the specialist, atypical course of a heart attack is more common in elderly people and patients with diabetes. Instead of the classic pain that lasts more than 20 minutes and may radiate to the left arm, neck, jaw, or under the shoulder blade, a person may sometimes feel discomfort in another part of the chest, abdomen, or back.

Poskakalova warned that in some cases, a heart attack may manifest as sudden shortness of breath, severe weakness, nausea, vomiting, cold clammy sweat, or a feeling of irregular heartbeat. However, the specialist notes, the condition sometimes progresses without any symptoms.

A cause for concern should be a condition where such symptoms persist at rest for more than 20 minutes and do not subside after resting. In this case, the doctor advises calling an ambulance as quickly as possible so that specialists can perform an ECG.

The cardiologist noted that heart attack prevention largely depends on lifestyle and control of risk factors. It is important to quit smoking, including vapes and heated tobacco products, as well as to maintain a balanced diet and limit salt, saturated fats, and trans fats.

Poskakalova also recommended that adults dedicate 150–300 minutes per week to moderate physical activity or at least 75 minutes to vigorous exercise. In addition, it is necessary to maintain a proper sleep schedule and monitor blood pressure.

For early detection of cardiovascular risks, the doctor advised regularly getting an ECG, having blood tests for cholesterol and glucose, and after the age of 40, getting checked annually. Also, starting from this age, it is recommended to undergo an ultrasound of the neck arteries once every three years.