This happens because nerve signals from the heart get confused with other areas of the body, especially in women.
What to do:
Pay attention if the pain appears for no apparent reason (for example, without having exerted yourself physically).
If it comes and goes, and especially if it's accompanied by sweating or nausea, it could be an early warning sign.
Difficulty sleeping or sudden anxiety:
Before a heart attack, many people report feeling unusual anxiety or restlessness, even for no apparent reason.
Some experience insomnia, waking up several times during the night gasping for breath or with a feeling of tightness in their chest.
This happens because the heart is under stress and the nervous system reacts by trying to compensate for the imbalance.
What to do:
If you can't sleep well for several nights and experience palpitations or shortness of breath, don't ignore it. It could be an early sign of heart failure or a pre-heart attack.
Indigestion or stomach upset
A heart attack doesn't always cause chest pain; in many cases, it begins with digestive symptoms.
These can include heartburn, abdominal pressure, gas, or pain in the upper stomach.
This is especially common in older people and women, leading to it being mistaken for a simple digestive upset.
What to do:
If you notice a "heartburn" rising in your chest, a feeling of extreme fullness, or nausea that does not go away, consult a doctor immediately.
How to prevent a heart attack
Prevention is always the best treatment.
According to the World Health Organization, more than 80% of heart attacks could be prevented by adopting healthy habits.
Main recommendations:
Monitor your blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
Don't smoke or abuse alcohol.
Maintain a diet rich in fruits, vegetables and healthy fats (olive oil, fish, avocado).
Do at least 30 minutes of physical activity every day.
Learn to manage stress and get enough sleep.
