A silent heart attack usually has mild symptoms that are left unrecognized. The damage to the heart is only detected during a routine electrocardiogram (ECG) that records the electrical signals of the heart.
Take note that the risk for ending with an advanced phase of heart disease is heightened due to absence of treatment and proper intervention. The indications of a silent heart attack might include heart rhythm issues or heart failure after developing damage in the heart.
A silent heart attack can result to future difficulties that leads to significant damage to the heart as coronary artery disease further develops. Another episode of heart attack can result to more impairment and evident symptoms which compounds the effects of heart muscle loss that arises with an attack. Remember that the risk for premature death is high among those who have undetected heart attacks.
What are the indications?
The signs of a silent heart attack are often present but left unrecognized. It can be mild but pinpointed with thorough history taking by the doctor. The episodes of mild indigestion, weakness, dizziness, sweating and abrupt fatigue might be linked to an unrecognized heart attack. In some cases, especially those with diabetes, there are no signs at all.
How is it identified
A regular echocardiogram, electrocardiogram or stress test might reveal whether the individual had a silent heart attack. When an ultrasound is performed, it is possible to detect damage on the heart muscle.
An electrocardiogram might show irregularities in the conduction of the electrical signals of the heart which makes it likely for unnoticed heart disease and an unrecognized heart attack. In addition, a nuclear stress test that utilizes images to view the heart might show regions of damaged heart tissue.
More Information / Disclaimer
The information posted on this page on a silent heart attack is for learning purposes only. Learn to recognize the indications by taking a standard first aid course with Mississauga First Aid.