In an alarming warning, a cardiologist reveals that two persistent symptoms could be indicative of a 'silent' heart attack, which often goes unnoticed until significantly later. Silent heart attacks account for approximately one-third of all heart attacks, a fact brought to light by Professor Tim Chico of the British Heart Foundation (BHF). These heart attacks typically occur without the usual warning signs, making them especially dangerous as they can remain undiagnosed for weeks, months, or even years.

Professor Chico emphasizes that ongoing symptoms like chest pain or breathlessness can serve as crucial signals that a silent heart attack has taken place. Many individuals may not recall experiencing acute symptoms, while others might seek medical attention for unrelated issues, such as toothaches or back pain, only to be informed later that they had, in fact, suffered from a silent heart attack. This highlights the importance of being vigilant about even subtle symptoms, as they could indicate a serious underlying health issue.

The implications of silent heart attacks are profound, particularly in terms of public health awareness. Given that a significant number of heart attacks are not recognized immediately, there is a pressing need for increased education on symptoms and risk factors. Cardiology experts like Professor Chico aim to enlighten both the medical community and the public to foster early detection and treatment, which could potentially save lives and prevent more severe cardiovascular complications.