Heart attack cases have suddenly become more frequent. Every day, someone loses their life due to a heart attack. Typical symptoms include severe chest pain, sweating, and difficulty breathing. However, in recent times, some heart attacks occur without any clear symptoms. This is known as a silent heart attack, and it can be just as dangerous as a regular heart attack.
The shocking fact is that it can affect even fit and active individuals, regardless of their age. Two recent incidents have left people stunned. Let’s understand what a silent heart attack is, how dangerous it can be, and how to prevent it through these real-life cases.
Case 1:
Dr. Pawan Singhal, a 54-year-old yoga instructor who promoted fitness and well-being, passed away due to a silent heart attack. He was a senior surgeon in the Animal Husbandry Department in Ashoknagar, Madhya Pradesh. On the night of his death, he followed his usual routine—waking up at 1 AM, taking a bath, praying, and practicing yoga for 90 minutes. He then jogged 3 kilometers before driving to his yoga class. However, while driving, he suffered a silent heart attack, collapsed in his car, and was rushed to the hospital. Unfortunately, he was declared dead on arrival.
Case 2:
Former Bangladesh cricket captain Tamim Iqbal suffered a heart attack during a match between Mohammedan Sporting Club and Shinepukur Cricket Club in the Dhaka Premier Division League. While playing, he suddenly experienced severe chest pain and was immediately taken to the hospital, where tests like ECG were conducted. Though he was feeling uneasy, he wanted to return to Dhaka. However, while traveling in an ambulance, he experienced chest pain again. He was rushed back to the hospital, where doctors confirmed that he had suffered a major heart attack. Fortunately, he is currently under medical supervision and recovering.
These incidents have sparked a debate: Are fit individuals also at risk of silent heart attacks?
What is a Silent Heart Attack?
A silent heart attack is a type of heart attack that occurs without obvious symptoms like chest pain, sweating, or breathlessness. Many people mistake it for simple fatigue, indigestion, or mild discomfort. However, it quietly damages the heart from the inside. In many cases, people remain unaware that they have suffered a heart attack until they undergo an ECG or other medical tests.
How a Silent Heart Attack Strikes Quietly
- Unlike a typical heart attack, it does not cause severe pain or discomfort, making people ignore it.
- Mild chest discomfort, fatigue, or back pain is often mistaken for gas or muscle pain.
- Stress, unhealthy diet, prolonged sitting, and lack of exercise contribute to this condition.
- Over time, blockages build up in the coronary arteries, reducing blood flow and damaging the heart muscles.
Who is at Higher Risk?
- Diabetic patients
- People with high blood pressure
- Smokers and alcohol consumers
- Individuals under chronic stress or depression
- Unhealthy lifestyle habits like lack of sleep, poor diet, and physical inactivity
Also Read- 5 Daily Habits to Lower Cholesterol Levels
How to Identify Signs of a Silent Heart Attack?
- Mild but recurrent chest discomfort
- Pain in the back, neck, jaw, or arms
- Weakness, dizziness, or lightheadedness
- Unexplained extreme fatigue
- Mild sweating or shortness of breath
How to Prevent a Silent Heart Attack?
✔ Get regular health checkups, especially if heart disease runs in the family.
✔ Avoid processed and fatty foods; eat more vegetables, fruits, and nuts.
✔ Exercise daily for at least 30 minutes—walk, do yoga, or work out.
✔ Practice meditation and relaxation techniques to reduce stress.
✔ Monitor blood pressure and sugar levels regularly.
✔ Avoid smoking and alcohol to protect heart health.
By staying informed and making healthy lifestyle changes, you can reduce the risk of silent heart attacks and ensure a healthier heart.