Article content
A heart attack or sudden cardiac arrest often comes unexpectedly and without warning. However, a new scientific study brings a hopeful finding – in many cases the body tries to warn of danger as early as 24 hours beforehand. And recognizing these signals in time can save a life.
A heart attack may not be without warning
Research published in the prestigious journal The Lancet Digital Health showed that up to half of people who suffered sudden cardiac arrest exhibited at least one warning sign the day before the event itself. These findings represent a major shift in the prevention of heart attacks and cardiac arrest – because the earlier we recognize problems, the better our chances of survival.
“Most people die within minutes after sudden cardiac arrest if it occurs outside the hospital. Timely recognition of symptoms can mean the difference between life and death.”
What are the most common symptoms?
The research team analyzed data from the American cities of Ventura (California) and Portland (Oregon), where they monitored hundreds of sudden cardiac events. In half of the patients, warning symptoms appeared the day before the arrest. They also differed by sex:
- Men: most commonly chest pain
- Women: shortness of breath was more common
Other possible symptoms:
- rapid heart rate
- dizziness
- brief loss of consciousness
- flu-like symptoms
- feelings of weakness or faintness
Who is at greatest risk?
The risk of sudden cardiac arrest increases significantly in people who suffer from:
- high blood pressure
- diabetes
- ischemic heart disease
- obesity
- or have a family history of cardiovascular disease
Everyone can help: knowledge and technology
Up to 85 % of cardiac arrest cases are caused by heart rhythm disorders (arrhythmias), which can be successfully treated with a defibrillator if used in time. Public availability of these devices (AEDs) in public places can significantly increase survival chances – as can a quick response from bystanders.
In the future, smartwatches, sensors and apps may also play a key role by being able to detect irregularities in heart activity in time.
Warning signs you should not ignore
Here are the key warning signals to watch for – especially if you have any risk factor:
- severe chest pain that lasts longer than a few minutes
- shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- sudden sweating, nausea or vomiting
- weakness, dizziness or loss of consciousness
- unusual heart rhythm or strong palpitations
If you or your loved ones experience any of these symptoms, call emergency services immediately (155).
Heart attack by the numbers: statistics that speak for themselves
- 450,000 people die annually in the USA from cardiac arrest
- In Europe, one such event occurs every 45 seconds
- In Greece, nearly 80,000 people die annually from out-of-hospital cardiac arrest
These figures show how common and serious these incidents are – and how important it is to be prepared and informed.
In conclusion: pay attention to your body’s signals
Sudden cardiac arrest is insidious and often fatal – but it doesn’t have to be unexpected. If we learn to sense our bodies, listen to them and respond in time to the first signs of trouble, we can prevent the worst.
👉 Share this article with friends and family. It could save their lives – and that’s the whole point.
Warning: This article does not serve as medical advice. In case of any health problems, always consult your physician or a qualified healthcare professional.
