Signs to watch closely:
A sudden shortness of breath, even when sitting quietly. A feeling of tightness or suffocation. Difficulty breathing when lying down. This symptom is frequently mistaken for asthma or an anxiety attack. However, if the heart is no longer pumping properly, the lungs receive less oxygen, causing this abnormal shortness of breath.
Chest pains: not always severe, but always to be taken seriously
Contrary to the image we have of a sudden, excruciating pain, cardiac signals can be much more subtle.
Things you shouldn’t ignore:
A feeling of pressure, tightness, or burning in the chest. Discomfort that comes and goes in waves. Pain that resembles simple indigestion. In women, this pain is often less intense and can be mistaken for acid reflux. If unusual discomfort persists, it is essential to consult a doctor promptly.
Upper body pain: when the heart takes other paths
Pain that radiates to the jaw, back, or shoulders can be a warning sign, particularly in women.
The signs to look out for:
Persistent or intermittent pain in the jaw or back. Discomfort that spreads to the arms or neck. Pain that wakes you up in the middle of the night. Too often attributed to simple muscle tension, this pain is nevertheless a major warning sign that should not be ignored.
Nausea, indigestion, and stomach pain
Digestive problems can be misleading, but when they occur for no apparent reason, it is best to remain vigilant.
What you need to observe:
Persistent nausea, even without having eaten unusual foods. Unexplained vomiting. A feeling of heaviness in the upper abdomen. Heart attacks are sometimes mistaken for simple indigestion. If these symptoms are unusual and persistent, a medical consultation is necessary.
