A Month Before a Heart Attack, Your Body Will Warn You: 8 Warning Signs to Recognize

7. Dizziness or Lightheadedness

Feeling faint, dizzy, or as if the room is spinning can indicate low blood pressure caused by reduced cardiac output.

Action Step: Sit or lie down and hydrate, but if the symptom persists or is accompanied by chest pain, call emergency services.

8. Swelling in the Ankles, Feet, or Legs

Fluid retention (edema) can appear weeks before a heart attack as the heart struggles to circulate blood effectively.

Why It Happens: Blood pools in the lower extremities due to poor circulation.

Tip: Persistent swelling, especially with shortness of breath, may signal heart failure or other serious issues.

Who Is at Higher Risk?

• People with high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or diabetes
• Smokers and heavy drinkers
• Individuals with a family history of heart disease
• People who are overweight or sedentary

How to Take Preventive Action

If you notice these signs, take immediate steps to reduce your risk:

• Seek medical evaluation: A doctor may order an ECG, stress test, or blood work.
• Adopt a heart-healthy diet: Focus on vegetables, fruits, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats.
• Exercise regularly: Even 30 minutes of walking per day can strengthen your heart.
• Quit smoking and reduce alcohol: These are major contributors to heart disease.
• Manage stress: Chronic stress increases blood pressure and heart strain.

Conclusion

Your body often warns you weeks in advance of a heart attack. Recognizing symptoms like chest discomfort, unexplained fatigue, shortness of breath, and referred pain can give you a life-saving head start.

Don’t ignore these warning signs — take them seriously and consult a healthcare professional. Early action can prevent a heart attack and keep your heart strong for years to come.