Pain in these five body parts could signal a heart attack

Heart attack is one of the leading causes of death around the world. According to World Health Organization (WHO) reports, an estimated 17.9 million people died from heart problems in 2019, which is 32% of all global deaths.

Post COVID-19, the number of young heart patients has increased significantly. Sedentary lifestyle choices, unhealthy eating habits, and even over-exercising are the major reasons behind the increase in heart attack cases.

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While no one can tell when exactly a heart attack will occur, your body could signal a forthcoming heart attack.

Chest Pain

Chest pain is surely one of the most common signs. One may feel uncomfortable pressure, squeeze, fullness, or pain in the center of the chest. Such symptoms usually start slowly, and they may go away and come back. The pain and the pressure could last a few minutes. If so, contact your doctor immediately.

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Back

While chest pain may be a significant sign of a heart attack, one should not ignore warning signs that can appear in your back, especially in women. According to the American Heart Association, women are more likely to complain of back pain before and during a heart attack. One may also feel a heavy pressure on the back.

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Jaw

Jaw pain can be something more than just a muscle disorder or toothache. Jaw pain in the left side of the face is a common sign of a heart attack in women. If you experience a pain in the jaw along with chest discomfort, breathlessness, sweating, wheezing, and nausea, call for immediate medical help.

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Neck

While the pain or discomfort may start from your chest, the pain can spread to your neck over time. Apart from exhaustion, muscle stress, and strain, a stiff neck could be a sign of a heart attack too.

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Shoulder

When the pain starts from your chest and reaches your neck, jaw, and shoulders, then it could be a sign of a heart attack. If you feel a crushing pain in your shoulder call for immediate medical assistance.

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Left-arm

A heart attack occurs due to a blockage of the blood flow into the heart muscle; it can lead to stinging pain in your left arm. While mild body pain can occur due to aging, sudden, unusual pain can be an early indicator of a heart attack.

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As and when a person suffers a heart attack or a cardiac arrest, it is important to give immediate cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). Contact the nearest hospital and your doctor immediately.