Silent Heart Attack Symptoms

Cardiac Imaging

Depending on the clinical situation, additional imaging such as cardiac MRI may help assess heart muscle damage.

Blood Tests

During an acute heart attack, blood tests can measure cardiac biomarkers that indicate heart muscle injury. The specific tests used depend on the symptoms and clinical situation.

A doctor will determine which tests are appropriate based on symptoms, medical history, examination findings, and risk factors.

What Should You Do If You Notice Possible Symptoms?

Do not assume that mild symptoms are harmless if they could indicate a heart attack.

If you experience sudden or persistent chest discomfort, shortness of breath, cold sweating, nausea, dizziness, or pain spreading to the arm, back, neck, jaw, or shoulder, seek emergency medical help immediately. Heart attack symptoms can be mild, and it is better to be evaluated promptly than to wait for symptoms to become severe.

In India, call the local emergency medical service or go to the nearest emergency department. Do not drive yourself if emergency transport or someone else who can drive is available.

If you have been prescribed nitroglycerin for angina, use it according to your doctor's instructions. Do not delay emergency care to take medication. Aspirin should only be taken during a suspected heart attack when recommended by a healthcare professional or emergency medical service, because it is not appropriate for everyone.

How Can You Reduce the Risk of a Silent Heart Attack?

Many cardiovascular risk factors can be managed through medical care and healthy lifestyle choices.