The human heart is a unique organ in the body that pumps blood to all parts to keep the body working optimally while diabetes is a condition that arises due to high blood sugar levels.

Each of these conditions can cause severe health issues when not detected early and treated accordingly. This article discusses key indicators for a heart attack and diabetes to raise awareness about early detection and reducing the risk of complications.

Key Indicators for a Heart Attack

A heart attack is a medical emergency that occurs when there is a blockage of the blood flow to the heart muscle leading to heart damage or failure.

It is a life-threatening condition, and individuals need to be vigilant of the warning signs to seek emergency medical care.

Chest Pain or Discomfort

Chest pain or discomfort is the most common symptom of a heart attack. The pain usually begins as a dull, tight, or squeezing sensation in the chest, and it may last for several minutes to hours.

The discomfort occurs in the upper body, neck, jaw, shoulder, or arms.

Shortness of Breath

Shortness of breath is another sign of a heart attack, and it usually occurs before chest pain or discomfort.

It may manifest as an overwhelming feeling of fatigue, inability to catch one’s breath even when resting or performing light activities, or rapid or irregular breathing patterns.

Nausea and Vomiting

Some individuals who experience a heart attack may feel nauseated, vomit, or break out in cold sweat. These symptoms are usually more common in women than men and may also be accompanied by back pain or stomach pain.

Light-headedness, Dizziness, and Fainting

During a heart attack, some individuals may experience dizziness, light-headedness, and fainting. These symptoms occur when there is a serious drop in blood pressure levels making individuals feel weak or like they are about to pass out.

Indicators of Diabetes

Diabetes is a chronic condition that arises when the pancreas is unable to produce enough insulin for the body to function correctly or cannot use insulin effectively.

Insulin is responsible for controlling the blood sugar level in the body, and when it is insufficient, blood sugar levels rise, leading to various complications.

Frequent Urination

Frequent urination is a common symptom of diabetes. This happens when the kidneys work harder to filter and absorb excess sugar in the bloodstream. The result is a frequent need to urinate. This symptom may onset before other recognizable signs.

Increase Thirst and Dry Mouth

An increase in thirst levels and a dry mouth may occur due to frequent urination, leading to dehydration.

Maintaining good hydration is crucial for proper functioning of the body, and dehydration can lead to various complications such as dizziness, fatigue, and low blood pressure levels.

Blurred Vision

High blood sugar levels in the body can damage blood vessels in the eyes, leading to blurred vision. In severe cases, this may cause eye conditions such as glaucoma, blindness, or cataracts.

It’s important to get regular eye exams when you have diabetes.

Slow Healing of Wounds and Infections

High blood sugar levels can damage nerves and blood vessels resulting in slow healing of wounds and infections. This symptom may increase the risk of complications due to delays in early detection and treatment.

Tingling Sensation or Numbness in the Limbs

High blood sugar levels can damage nerves, leading to a tingling sensation or numbness in the limbs. These symptoms are common in the hands and feet and may indicate severe nerve damage requiring medical attention.