Heart Attack Symptoms in Men
Recognize the common and subtle heart attack symptoms in men, including chest pain, shortness of breath, and fatigue. Early detection is key to prompt treatment and better outcomes.
Written by Dr. Rohinipriyanka Pondugula
Reviewed by Dr. Md Yusuf Shareef MBBS
Last updated on 22nd Aug, 2025
A heart attack is a serious medical emergency that occurs when blood flow to the heart is blocked, often due to a blood clot or plaque buildup in the arteries. Recognizing the symptoms early can save lives, especially since men may experience different warning signs than women.
In this article, we’ll discuss the common heart attack symptoms in men, risk factors, prevention tips, and when to seek immediate medical help.
Common Heart Attack Symptoms in Men
Men often experience classic heart attack symptoms, which may include:
1. Chest Pain or Discomfort – The most common symptom is a feeling of pressure, tightness, or squeezing in the chest. It may last for several minutes or come and go.
2. Pain Radiating to Other Areas – Pain may spread to the arms (especially the left arm), shoulders, neck, jaw, or back.
3. Shortness of Breath – Difficulty breathing, even without chest pain, can be a warning sign.
4. Cold Sweats – Sudden, unexplained sweating, often accompanied by dizziness or nausea.
5. Nausea or Indigestion – Some men mistake heart attack symptoms for stomach issues like heartburn or indigestion.
6. Fatigue – Extreme tiredness, especially if it comes on suddenly without explanation.
7. Lightheadedness – Feeling faint or dizzy can indicate poor blood flow to the heart.
Silent Heart Attacks: A Hidden Danger
Not all heart attacks cause severe chest pain. Some men experience "silent" heart attacks with mild or no symptoms, which can still cause serious damage. If you feel unusually tired, have unexplained discomfort, or feel "off," don’t ignore it, consult a doctor.
Consult a Top Cardiologist
What Causes a Heart Attack in Men?
Heart attacks are often caused by coronary artery disease (CAD), where plaque builds up in the arteries, reducing blood flow. Risk factors include:
Age (Men over 45 are at higher risk)
Smoking
High blood pressure
High cholesterol
Diabetes
Obesity
Sedentary lifestyle
Family history of heart disease
Stress and excessive alcohol consumption
How to Reduce Your Risk of a Heart Attack
Preventing a heart attack starts with a heart-healthy lifestyle:
1. Eat a Balanced Diet
Focus on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.
Limit processed foods, salt, sugar, and unhealthy fats.
2. Stay Active
Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise (like brisk walking) most days.
Even small changes, like taking the stairs, can help.
3. Quit Smoking
Smoking damages blood vessels and increases heart attack risk. Seek help if needed.
4. Manage Stress
Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga.
Get enough sleep (7-9 hours per night).
5. Control Medical Conditions
Keep blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes under control with regular check-ups.
When to Seek Emergency Help
If you or someone else experiences heart attack symptoms:
Call emergency services immediately (Dial 108 or your local emergency number).
Do not wait, every minute counts.
Chew an aspirin (if not allergic) to help thin the blood while waiting for help.
Get Checked Early as Prevention is Key
If you have risk factors for heart disease, regular check-ups can help detect problems early. Apollo 24|7 offers heart health packages and consultations with cardiologists to assess your risk and provide personalized advice.
Conclusion
Heart attacks can happen suddenly, but knowing the signs and taking preventive steps can make all the difference. Listen to your body, adopt a heart-healthy lifestyle, and seek medical help if something feels wrong. Your heart deserves the best care!
Consult a Top Cardiologist
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