11 Early Warning Signs of a Heart Attack the Month Before

Take charge of your health by knowing these pre-heart attack symptoms

Heart attacks can be sudden and severe. But did you know there are often subtle warning signs that can appear weeks or even a month before the event?

“Recognizing these early symptoms can be crucial for timely medical intervention — and can potentially save lives,” says Bryan Martin, DO, a Geisinger cardiologist.

Common heart attack signs and symptoms

A heart attack, also known as a myocardial infarction (MI), occurs when the blood flow to the heart is blocked, which can damage or kill the heart muscle. It’s usually caused by a blood clot.

“When your heart muscle begins to die because it isn’t getting enough blood flow, it’s a medical emergency. Don’t wait to get help,” says Dr. Martin. The 4 most well-known symptoms you might be aware of are:

Chest pain: One of the most recognizable signs of a heart attack is a left side chest ache, or a feeling of pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain in the center or left side of the chest. This discomfort can last for a few minutes or come and go.
Pain in the jaw, neck or back: Pain or discomfort can also spread from the chest to the shoulders, back, neck, jaw or arms. In some cases, people may feel pain in their upper abdomen, which can be mistaken for indigestion.
Shortness of breath: Feeling out of breath, even when you’re not exerting yourself, can be a sign of a heart attack. This symptom can occur with or without chest pain.
Pain in the arm or shoulder: Usually it’s in the left arm but it can affect both arms.

11 subtle pre-heart attack symptoms

“One of the most surprising aspects of heart attacks is that some symptoms can appear up to a month before it happens,” says Dr. Martin. These pre-heart attack symptoms are often subtle and can be easily dismissed as other issues. Here are some early warning signs to watch for:

1. Unusual and persistent fatigue

If you find yourself feeling unusually tired, even after a good night’s sleep, it could be a sign that your heart is under stress. “Some patients have extreme fatigue or unexplained weakness, sometimes for days or weeks before a heart attack,” says Dr. Martin. This fatigue can be so severe that it interferes with daily activities.

2. Increased anxiety or sense of impending doom

Some patients, especially women, report feeling a sense of anxiety or impending doom, which can be a psychological response to the physical changes occurring in the body. This sudden increase in anxiety or a feeling of unease can be an early warning sign. If you’re feeling more on-edge than usual, it’s worth telling your doctor.

3. Shortness of breath

Difficulty breathing, especially during light activities or at rest, can indicate that your heart is not functioning as it should. This can occur without chest pain and is often mistaken for a respiratory issue.

4. Chest tightness or discomfort

While chest pain is a commonly known symptom, you might feel a more subtle discomfort, such as a feeling of heaviness or tightness in the chest.

5. Sleep disturbances

Insomnia or frequent waking during the night can be a sign that your body is under stress.

6. Indigestion or heartburn

Persistent digestive issues, especially if they are new or different from your usual symptoms, can be a red flag. Some heart attack symptoms mimic indigestion or heartburn, such as a burning sensation in the chest or upper abdomen.

7. Cold sweats

If you’re breaking out in cold sweats for no apparent reason, it’s worth paying attention to. Random cold sweats, especially if they’re disconnected to physical activity or a hot environment, can be early warning signs.

8. Dizziness or lightheadedness

Feeling dizzy or lightheaded, especially if it’s new or worsening, can signal a heart problem.

9. Unexplained weakness

A general feeling of weakness or a lack of energy can be an early sign of a heart attack.

10. Nausea and vomiting

Digestive issues, including nausea and vomiting, are more common in women and can be mistaken for a stomach bug.

11. Palpitations

Irregular or rapid heartbeats, including a fluttering in your chest, can be a sign that your heart is under stress. “This is definitely something to pay attention to and mention to your doctor,” says Dr. Martin.

What to do if you notice these symptoms

If you or someone you know has any of these symptoms, don’t wait to act. Here are some steps you can take:

Seek medical attention: If you suspect you might be having a heart attack, call 911 immediately. “Time is of the essence, and early treatment can significantly improve outcomes,” says Dr. Martin.
Keep a symptom journal: If you have any of the pre-heart attack symptoms, keep a journal to track when and how often they occur. This data can be helpful for your doctor. You could write it down or keep a running note on your smart phone, so you always have it with you.
Talk to your doctor: Schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider to discuss your symptoms. They can perform tests and provide guidance on how to manage your risk.
An ounce of prevention: Adopt a heart-healthy lifestyle by eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, managing stress and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption. “Check with your doctor about adding a low-dose aspirin to your supplement routine,” says Dr. Martin.
Know your risk factors: Be aware of your risk factors for heart disease, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes and a family history of heart disease. Managing these risk factors can help reduce your risk of a heart attack.

Stay informed, proactive and healthy

Heart attacks can be serious, but the good news is they can be preventable. Spotting the early signs and symptoms can help you take charge of your heart health and keep your ticker in top shape.