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10 early warning signs of a heart attack

10 early warning signs of a heart attack

Heart attacks typically occur when there is a blockage in one or more of the coronary arteries, which supply blood to the heart muscle. This blockage can result from plaque buildup in the arteries, causing reduced blood flow to the heart. If the blood flow is severely restricted or completely blocked, it can lead to damage to or death of the heart muscle. Here are the common early signs of a heart attack:

1. Chest pain
Also called angina, chest pain is a common early sign that indicates a clogged artery. The pain might feel like a tightness in the chest area, squeezing, or a sensation of pressure and general discomfort. People may also complain of the sensation of burning or pinching. The pain may last for a few minutes. Other reasons for chest pain may include acid reflux, muscle strain, or injury. If one experiences the pain for a few seconds, primarily upon touching a particular area around the chest, it is most likely not a result of a heart attack. Alternatively, one may not experience chest pain but still have blockages. So, it’s important to consult a health professional and check one’s heart health periodically.

2. Stinging sensation
One may also experience pain, certain discomfort, or a stinging sensation in different body parts. These sensations can extend beyond the chest area, affecting the back, shoulders, arms, or feet.

3. Jaw or throat pain
Throat or jaw pain may have several other reasons, including sinus infections or dental problems. But it can also be a sign of a heart attack, especially if the pain sits in the center of one’s chest and travels to the jaw or throat.

4. Indigestion
While it’s typically associated with digestive problems, indigestion can also be an unexpected early sign of a heart attack. Associated symptoms in this category include nausea, heartburn, diarrhea, stomach pain, or other indigestion issues. Distinguishing between common indigestion from lifestyle factors and indigestion caused by a blocked artery can be challenging. However, certain indicators can help differentiate the two. Indigestion associated with a heart attack often presents with heartburn and breathlessness and may not respond to typical home remedies. In addition, heart-related indigestion may not lead to bloating, unlike regular indigestion.

5. Dizziness
The heart pumps blood and oxygen throughout the body, keeping it energetic. But any blockages can hinder this oxygen supply and lead to feeling breathless, lightheaded, or dizzy. A person may feel like they are losing balance or fainting. These may also be caused by fast movements or dehydration, but if the symptom is associated with chest discomfort or breathlessness, they should seek prompt medical attention.

6. Fatigue
One may experience a sense of fatigue or exhaustion even after performing smaller tasks. People often describe the feeling as running a marathon after walking a few steps. If they see a significant drop in their ability to hold energy levels up throughout the day, they should check their cardiac health.

7. Snoring
Snoring, a common occurrence during sleep, can sometimes signify underlying health concerns. If the snoring is accompanied by choking or breathing difficulties, it can indicate compromised heart function. Sleep apnea is also linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular problems. The condition causes people to stop breathing and gasp during snores temporarily. Those who seem to have these issues while sleeping should consult a doctor and check their cardiovascular health.

8. Coughing
When the heart cannot meet the body’s demands, blood can leak into the lungs. This can lead to coughing up mucus in a white or pink color and a persistent cough that doesn’t seem to subside with remedies or medical attention.

9. Pain that travels down to the arm
One of the most common signs of an imminent or approaching heart attack is a pain or tingling sensation that starts on the left side of one’s chest and travels or spreads down the same arm. Any person experiencing this symptom should immediately get medical help.

10. Cold sweat
People about to experience cardiac arrest may break into a sweat due to a lack of oxygen supply to the heart muscles and severe stress on the heart.

It is recommended to call 9-1-1 immediately if one experiences severe symptoms. Some immediate treatment methods for heart attack include CPR and electric shock or defibrillation. Early and prompt treatment increases one’s chance of surviving a heart attack and ensuring the least organ damage.

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Understanding arthritis – A common joint condition

The joints are constantly working while we move our limbs, so, understandably, people may develop certain joint conditions that cause pain and compromise mobility, especially with age. One of the common joint conditions is arthritis, which leads to joint inflammation and mild to severe pain. While there are several types of arthritis, the two most common types are rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Stages Rheumatoid arthritis has four stages: Stage 1: At this stage, inflammation occurs inside the joints, and swelling, stiffness, and joint pain are the common symptoms. Stage 2: The inflammation of the joint lining, synovium, aggravates at this stage and results in cartilage damage. The affected joints’ range of motion is also compromised, causing pain and discomfort. Stage 3: At this stage, the severity of the joint condition increases, and it leads to bone damage. This results in more pain, loss of mobility, and weakness of muscles. The bones rubbing against each other can cause bone deformity as well. Stage 4: This is the final stage where the joints stop functioning completely. It leads to more pain, stiffness, and swelling, and the bones may even fuse, which is known as ankylosis. Osteoarthritis also has four stages of progression: Stage 1: Wear and tear may affect the knee joints, and minor spur growths on the affected bone can also be seen, but the condition does not cause too much pain at this stage. Stage 2: The bone spur growths increase and cause pain, and the knee joints become stiffer. Stage 3: This stage is characterized by joint inflammation leading to increased pain and stiffness. Walking can also cause popping sounds in the joints. Stage 4: The space between the bones in the joints becomes very narrow, causing the cartilage to wear down. Also, a chronic inflammatory response caused by the breakdown of cartilage aggravates discomfort and pain. Diagnosis of arthritis These joint conditions can be diagnosed using several tests. A physical examination reveals whether a patient has red, warm, and tender joints, and this test also helps examine the fluid around the joints. A rheumatologist can analyze the level of inflammation in the joints to determine the type of arthritis an individual is affected with. Also, blood tests are undertaken to check for antibodies like anti-CCP, rheumatoid factor, and antinuclear antibody. In addition, X-ray, CT scans, and MRI are also performed to check the condition of the cartilage and bones. Prevention of arthritis A family history of joint conditions like arthritis or aging can increase one’s risk of developing arthritis, but making certain lifestyle changes can also help lower the chances of developing the condition. To start with, one should include more foods with omega-3 fatty acids in their diet as these healthy fats are anti-inflammatory. One should also exercise regularly, keep their weight under check, reduce stress on their joints, and try to avoid injuries. Also, if one notices any symptoms of arthritis, they should consult a doctor immediately as early diagnosis goes a long way in managing the condition effectively through timely treatment.

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10 signs of early-stage hearing loss that shouldn’t be ignored

Hearing is a vital sense that connects one to the world around. Yet, hearing loss is a prevalent but often underestimated issue that can significantly impact one’s life. It is crucial to recognize the early signs of hearing loss to seek timely intervention and maintain a high quality of life. This article provides an insight into the subtle indicators of hearing loss and the importance of early detection and management. Difficulty understanding speech in noisy environments One of the earliest signs of hearing loss is struggling to comprehend conversations in noisy settings, such as restaurants, parties, or busy streets. Background noise can make it challenging to distinguish and interpret words, leaving individuals feeling isolated and frustrated. Frequent requests for repetition Repeated requests for clarification indicate that one may not be hearing as clearly as one should be. One can ask for things to be said more loudly, more slowly, more clearly, and so on. Friends and family may also notice this behavior early on. Increased volume on devices Another common sign is the need to increase the volume on one’s television, radio, or smartphone to levels that others find uncomfortably loud. If one frequently hears complaints about the volume setting, it might be a hint that one’s hearing is not what it used to be. Struggling with high-pitched sounds Hearing loss often starts by affecting high-frequency sounds. As a result, one might have difficulty hearing high-pitched sounds like birdsong, doorbells, or the chirping of an alarm clock. Missing these sounds can disrupt one’s daily routine and impact safety. Ringing or buzzing in the ears (Tinnitus) Tinnitus, the perception of a ringing or buzzing sound in the ears, often accompanies hearing loss. While not exclusive to hearing loss, tinnitus can be a red flag. If one experiences persistent tinnitus, it is essential to discuss it with a healthcare professional. Sounds becoming muffled or distorted Individuals with hearing loss might notice that sounds seem muffled or distorted. This distortion can make it challenging to understand speech, enjoy music, or engage fully in conversations. Avoidance of social situations Hearing loss can lead to social withdrawal as individuals may find it challenging to participate in conversations and engage with others. Avoiding social situations can lead to feelings of isolation and loneliness. Fatigue and stress after social interactions Straining to hear and follow conversations can be mentally and physically exhausting. After social gatherings or lengthy interactions, individuals with hearing loss may feel unusually tired and stressed. This fatigue can affect overall well-being. Misunderstanding words or Responding inappropriately Hearing loss can result in mishearing words or responding inappropriately to questions or comments. This can lead to misunderstandings and potentially embarrassing situations. Concerns voiced by loved ones Often, friends and family are the first to notice a loved one's hearing difficulties. They may observe the individual struggling to follow conversations or reacting to sounds differently than before. If multiple people express concern, it is essential to take their observations seriously. Patients with hearing loss can benefit from a meal plan rich in nutrients that support overall ear and auditory health. Some foods that can be particularly helpful include those high in antioxidants like vitamin C and E, such as citrus fruits, strawberries, and almonds. Omega-3 fatty acids found in fatty fish like salmon and mackerel may reduce the risk of age-related hearing loss. Magnesium-rich foods like spinach and bananas can also support ear health by improving blood circulation to the inner ear. Incorporating these foods into one's meal plan may contribute to better hearing health for those with hearing loss. Hearing loss, though often gradual and subtle, can have a profound impact on one’s life. Recognizing the signs early is crucial to maintaining communication, social engagement, and overall well-being. From struggling with noisy environments to requesting repetition and experiencing tinnitus, these indicators should not be ignored. Seeking a hearing evaluation and professional guidance can open doors to effective interventions, such as hearing aids, assistive devices, and communication strategies, ultimately preserving the joy of hearing in the years to come. Addressing hearing loss proactively is essential to ensure a more vibrant and connected life. Certain basic strategies like using hearing aids, seeking timely professional help, using assistive learning devices and visual cues, joining support groups, and building a social network can help one manage symptoms and lead a fruitful life. Friends, family members, colleagues, etc., can help people with hearing difficulties establish a healthy ecosystem to seek assistance wherever required and ensure physical and mental well-being.

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