Heart attacks, regardless of how small or large they may be, must be considered serious. They are classified as acute events, meaning they can occur suddenly and often result from an absence of oxygen and blood flow to the heart, as per the American Heart Association (AHA). What exactly is the length of time an attack on your heart lasts?
The duration of a heart attack and the symptoms are a lot different depending on the individual, and every heart attack is not identical. This is particularly true based on the speed you receive treatment.
Two cardiologists discuss the typical length of heart attack, warning signs to be aware of and the best ways to ensure your heart is protected during recovery.
How long will an attack on the heart last?
Since heart attacks are thought of as an acute event, their duration tends to be shorter. “They don’t last long, usually happening suddenly and severely,” states Ernst Von Schwarz, MD who is a cardiologist and the creator of The Secrets of Immortality.
“A heart attack can be a life-threatening illness, and people can be afflicted with it at any time. In some instances, however, there might be a series of smaller heart attacks as the blood vessel affected isn’t yet fully blockage,” he adds.
Heart attacks don’t persist for long periods It is nevertheless possible for signs of a heart attack to persist, which could indicate an imminent threat of a second attack. This is why prompt care is essential.
“Typically patients seek medical attention within minutes to hours,” claims Blair Suter, MD, the cardiologist at Ohio State University’s Wexner Medical Center. If symptoms are not obvious and not apparent, they might not seek treatment for a few days the doctor says. This can be especially dangerous and difficult to manage.
Heart attack duration symptoms
The timing is crucial when it comes to an attack on the heart. Before you experience a complete heart attack the patient, may experience symptoms for a couple of minutes or for a long time that serve as warning indicators.
The most common symptoms are:
- Acute chest pain or pressure
- Breathing shortness
- Nausea
- Anxiety
- Low blood pressure
The signs usually disappear when the heart attack is dealt with immediately. However, if the heart attack is not treated or if there’s a delay in treatment, there’s a greater risk of permanent damage to the heart and possibly even death. In reality, as much as 50% of heart attack deaths occur within the first three to four hours after the symptoms begin as per Cedars Sinai.
Heart attack symptoms may differ between women and men According to AHA. Although chest pain is the most common characteristic for all people women tend to suffer from subtle signs like vomiting or nausea back pain, and jaw discomfort. “These unusual symptoms for women are a major reason for the inadvertently misdiagnosing acute heart attacks. This leads to delays in the treatment process and more serious outcomes in women as compared.
Women are often not represented in research on heart disease, which can lead to gender-based disparities that are significant in the way heart attacks and heart diseases affect different genders, as per the AHA.
There’s evidence that suggests heart disease among young adults is increasing. In a study from March 2023 in JAMA Researchers have found higher rates of diabetes, high blood pressure and obesity among young adults (ages between 20 and 44 to 44 years old)–all being the risk factors for heart disease or heart attacks.
Remember: This information is not intended to scare you, instead, it is meant to make you aware of the dangers that can cause heart attacks. If you’re uncertain regarding your heart health and risk contact your physician.
Related: The 5 Best Points Your Heart Medical to Examine Deciding
Heart attack warning signs attack
There are many warning signs to watch for that could indicate an attack on the heart, which include the following warning signs:
- Worsening chest pains
- Breathlessness
- Extreme fatigue
- The feeling of dizziness (leading to fainting)
“These symptoms could be indicators of a slow blockage in the arteries. It could last for weeks, if not for years or months, before an attack on the heart “Having any of these symptoms could need a cardiac examination.”
Although these are the most frequently seen symptoms of a heart attack many people experience different symptoms, according to Cedars Sinai. Some experience pain in the middle of their chest, which can spread across their jaw, back, or arms, but 1 in 3 people suffering from heart attacks do not experience chest pain according to Cedars Sinai. It is possible to feel discomfort or pain in the stomach region and could be misinterpreted as an indigestion.
When to go to the ER
The speed of time is crucial in the case of heart attacks, which is why it is crucial to recognize symptoms early and call 911 immediately. The most obvious indication that is that it’s time to visit the ER. If you’ve noticed newly developed or worsening symptoms like chest pain or breathlessness.
It’s equally important to seek treatment as soon as you can if you’re suffering from any of the risk factors listed below for heart attacks:
- Obesity
- Viral illnesses
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure
- Heart attacks are a common occurrence in families with strong family histories.
When it comes to treatment every minute is important. Doctors may prescribe heart medication to begin the healing process, such as the following, as per Mayo Clinic:
- Aspirin
- Beta-blockers (to slow heartbeats and reduce blood pressure if excessive)
- Blood clot busters
- Blood thinners
- Statins (to reduce cholesterol)
- Morphine (to alleviate pain)
- Medicine for blood pressure (also called ACE inhibitors)
FAQ
Are there ways to decrease the risk of having a coronary heart attack?
The quick answer? You can decrease your chance of suffering a heart attack by addressing specific risk factors, including:
- Smoking
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Diabetes
- Obesity
- A lifestyle that is sedentary
But things like family history and genetics are usually out of your control. If you’re living a healthy and active lifestyle, including eating healthy, having a balanced diet, taking exercise as well drinking enough water, sleeping regularly and taking care of any health issues–you’ll be able to at least reduce the risk.
What can I do to make sure I’m not suffering from an attack of the heart at home?
“If you’re concerned about experiencing a heart attack consult a doctor and not attempt to diagnose it by yourself. “This is a very serious medical condition that can have major consequences if not treated or if treatment is delayed.”
Anxiety is usually resolved when you take deep breaths and use relaxation techniques and indigestion is relieved by taking an antacid symptoms of heart attacks will get worse as time passes.
The bottom line is that if you’re uncertain about what’s happening, dial 911. It’s always safer to be cautious!
When should I visit the ER for chest pain?
Chest pain can arise from a myriad of factors. If the pain in your chest is severe, new and lasts longer than minutes, it’s recommended to visit the ER as per the Mayo Clinic. There an expert medical professional will assess your condition and identify the root reason. Even if there’s no indication of an attack on your heart it’s not a bad idea to get some peace of mind or even treatment for other health problems.
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