Welcome, dear readers, to our weekly Health Diaries column, where we explore various disease-related topics and simplify complex medical concepts for your understanding.
When people think of a heart attack, they often picture someone clutching their chest in severe pain and collapsing. While this dramatic image is accurate for some, not all heart attacks announce themselves so loudly. Some occur with subtle or even unnoticed symptoms — these are known as silent heart attacks.
A silent heart attack occurs when blood flow to part of the heart muscle is blocked, but the warning signs are so mild or unusual that the person does not realise what is happening. Shockingly, research shows that nearly 1 in 4 heart attacks may be silent. This makes them particularly dangerous, as they often go untreated, increasing the risk of future heart damage or sudden death.
Why they happen
Silent heart attacks occur for the same reasons as typical heart attacks: Blockage in the coronary arteries caused by plaque build-up, which reduces the oxygen supply to the heart muscle. Risk factors include high blood pressure, diabetes, smoking, high cholesterol, obesity, and a family history of heart disease.
Subtle warning signs to watch for
While silent heart attacks lack the classic crushing chest pain, they may present with:
• Mild chest discomfort or pressure that comes and goes
• Unexplained fatigue or weakness
• Shortness of breath during rest or light activity
• Pain or discomfort in the jaw, neck, back or arms
• Indigestion-like symptoms or nausea
• Light-headedness or sudden sweating
These symptoms are often mistaken for heartburn, the flu, muscle strain, or simply being tired. Women, older adults, and people with diabetes are especially prone to experiencing these subtle symptoms.
The hidden dangers
Because silent heart attacks often go unrecognised, the heart muscle may suffer increased damage over time. This raises the risk of heart failure, irregular heart rhythms, and a subsequent, potentially fatal, heart attack.
Prevention and protection
- Have regular check-ups – Monitor your blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar levels.
- Adopt a heart-healthy lifestyle – Eat a balanced diet, exercise regularly, maintain a healthy weight and avoid smoking.
- Listen to your body – Don’t ignore unusual symptoms, especially if you are at risk.
- Seek immediate care – If you suspect something is wrong, call emergency services. Early treatment can save lives.
Silent heart attacks may be quiet, but their consequences are loud and lasting. Awareness, regular health screenings, and prompt action can mean the difference between life and death. Your heart might not shout for help — so learn to listen when it whispers.
