A silent heart attack occurs without the severe chest pain or shortness of breath that occur in a normal heart attack. We often mistake it for other disorders. The main causes are:
Diabetes: Silent heart attacks are more common in diabetics. Since high sugar levels affect the nerves, the pain caused by the heart muscle does not reach the brain. This is called ‘diabetic neuropathy’.
High blood pressure: When BP is uncontrolled, the arteries become stiff and blood flow to the heart decreases. This can damage the heart muscle without causing major symptoms.
Increased cholesterol levels: When blood flow is partially blocked due to the accumulation of fat (plaque) in the blood vessels, the heart feels strain. This is usually manifested as only minor discomfort.
Obesity and lack of exercise: When you gain weight, your heart has to work harder. In people who do not exercise much and in people who smoke, heart health can decline without showing any symptoms.
Age: As you age, your nerves can become less sensitive to pain. This can lead to a delay in recognizing a heart attack.