A heart attack is a medical emergency that occurs when the blood supply to the heart is suddenly blocked. Medically, it is known as myocardial infarction. (News18 Bengali)
Heart attacks can strike at any time and do not follow age limits. In recent years, the condition has become increasingly common among younger people. In 2021, actor Siddharth Shukla died of a heart attack at just 40, highlighting the silent and unpredictable nature of this disease. (News18 Bengali)
Doctors warn that heart attacks often arrive without obvious warning signs. However, the American Academy of Dermatology Association suggests that certain skin-related symptoms could indicate heart disease. Being alert to these changes may help in early detection. (News18 Bengali)
One such symptom is the sudden appearance of rashes or blister-like spots on the skin. These are often linked to high cholesterol and triglyceride levels in the blood. The fatty deposits can build up on the skin, appearing as small, rash-like patches. (News18 Bengali)
Another warning sign is the development of a yellowish-orange coating or lump on the skin. This is usually seen around the eyes, on the hands, or the lower parts of the feet. Such lumps indicate rising cholesterol levels, which increase the risk of blockages in the heart. (News18 Bengali)
Changes in the nails can also signal potential heart issues. If the base of the nail becomes red and swollen, or if the tip of the nail bends downward, it could point to a heart infection. Red or purple spots under the nails are another sign that should not be ignored. (News18 Bengali)
Greyish round spots near the pupil of the eye may also indicate underlying heart disease. Research published in Medical News Today refers to a 2003 study involving 515 female heart attack survivors. It revealed that most women had experienced symptoms nearly a month before their attack. (News18 Bengali)
The study found three major early warning signals. The first was severe fatigue, reported by 71 percent of participants. The second was insomnia, which affected nearly 48 percent. The third was shortness of breath, experienced by around 42 percent of women before their heart attack. (News18 Bengali)
Doctors caution that during a heart attack, the earliest signs include profuse sweating, difficulty breathing, and chest discomfort. The patient may feel pressure in the chest, suffocation, or cold sensations. (News18 Bengali)
As the attack progresses, pain often radiates from the chest to the arms, shoulders, and jaw. Women may also experience abdominal pain, backache, sweating, or breathlessness in addition to chest pain. Recognising these symptoms early and seeking medical help could save lives. (News18 Bengali)
