Heart attacks are often unexpected and sudden, causing damage to the heart and sometimes leading to death.

However, did you know that there are warning signs that can show up one month before a heart attack happens? Paying attention to these signs can help you take preventive measures and reduce the risk of a heart attack. Here are two warning signs of a heart attack one month prior:.

Chest Pain or Discomfort

Chest pain or discomfort is the most common symptom of a heart attack, and it can happen one month prior to the actual event. The pain or discomfort may be intermittent or constant, dull or sharp, and can radiate to the neck, arms, back, or jaw.

It may feel like pressure, squeezing, fullness, or tightness. Chest pain or discomfort can also be triggered by physical activity or emotional stress.

If you experience chest pain or discomfort, don’t ignore it or dismiss it as something else.

Call your healthcare provider or seek emergency care immediately, especially if the pain or discomfort lasts for more than 15 minutes or is accompanied by other symptoms such as shortness of breath, nausea, sweating, lightheadedness, or palpitations.

Some other conditions that can cause chest pain or discomfort include:.

Angina
GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease)
Pleurisy
Panic attack

Shortness of Breath

Shortness of breath, also known as dyspnea, can signal a heart attack one month prior. This symptom can be mild or severe, and can occur at rest or during physical activity.

You may feel like you can’t take a deep breath, or that you’re suffocating or drowning. Shortness of breath can also be accompanied by wheezing, coughing, or chest tightness.

If you experience unexplained shortness of breath, don’t ignore it or downplay it.

It may be a sign of a heart attack, especially if it’s accompanied by other symptoms such as chest pain or discomfort, nausea, sweating, lightheadedness, or palpitations. Call your healthcare provider or seek emergency care right away.

Some other conditions that can cause shortness of breath include:.

Asthma
Pneumonia
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
Anxiety

Conclusion

Recognizing warning signs of a heart attack one month prior can be life-saving. Chest pain or discomfort and shortness of breath are two common warning signs that should not be ignored.

If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately. Prevention is key, so make healthy lifestyle choices such as regular exercise, a balanced diet, limited alcohol intake, no smoking, and stress management. Don’t wait until a heart attack strikes.