Cardiologist Issues Warning Over 'Silent' Heart Attacks in a Third of Cases
A leading cardiologist has issued a stark warning that it is entirely possible to suffer a heart attack without realising it, with around a third of all cases being classified as 'silent'. These events occur without the classic, telltale symptoms and may go undiagnosed for weeks, months, or even years, potentially delaying critical treatment.
The Hidden Danger of Silent Heart Attacks
Writing for the British Heart Foundation, Professor Tim Chico, a respected cardiologist, emphasised that silent heart attacks are surprisingly common, constituting approximately one third of all heart attack incidents. He explained, "They're often only diagnosed weeks, months or years afterwards, during a routine check-up, or because of ongoing symptoms, like chest pain (angina) or breathlessness."
Professor Chico highlighted that some individuals may not recall any symptoms at all, while others might visit a doctor for seemingly unrelated issues such as toothache, back pain, or general malaise. Only through investigations like electrocardiograms (ECGs) and blood tests do they discover they have experienced a silent heart attack.
Delayed Treatment and Increased Risks
The primary danger of silent heart attacks lies in the delay of essential medical interventions. "This means you miss out on treatments that reduce damage to the heart and the risk of having another heart attack," Professor Chico stated. He stressed that the effectiveness of these treatments is significantly enhanced when administered promptly.
Alarmingly, many people only become aware of a prior silent heart attack after suffering a subsequent, more severe cardiac event. "Some people only discover they've had a silent heart attack after having another heart attack, which they may not have had if they'd got treatment the first time," he added.
High-Risk Groups and Subtle Symptoms
Certain demographics are more susceptible to silent heart attacks, including:
- Elderly individuals – who may attribute symptoms to age-related issues or other health conditions.
- People with diabetes – nerve damage from the condition can mask chest pain, a common warning sign.
Experts from the Cleveland Clinic note that a silent heart attack might manifest through vague symptoms that mimic other ailments, such as:
- Feeling like you have the flu
- Sore muscles in the chest or upper back
- Aches in the jaw, arms, or upper back
- Extreme fatigue
- Indigestion
Common Heart Attack Symptoms and Prevention
A heart attack occurs when blood flow to the heart is abruptly blocked, typically by a blood clot. While chest pain is the most recognised symptom, the NHS advises that presentations can vary widely. Other common indicators include:
- Pain radiating to the arms, jaw, neck, back, or abdomen
- Lightheadedness or dizziness
- Sweating
- Shortness of breath
- Nausea or vomiting
- Intense anxiety, similar to a panic attack
- Coughing or wheezing
Professor Chico underscored the importance of prevention, stating, "The key to preventing a heart attack is having a healthy lifestyle. If you're at higher risk because of high cholesterol, high blood pressure or diabetes, talk to your doctor about treatment."
If you experience any signs of a heart attack, immediately call 999. For non-emergency concerns about heart health, consult your GP for advice and potential screenings.
