The alarming rise in heart attack cases across the country has become a cause for concern not just in older individuals but also among the youth due to current lifestyles and unhealthy habits. Advancements in medical technology have led to early diagnosis, better treatments and survival rates. Dr Vidya Suratkal, cardiologist, Lilavati Hospital and Research Centre, Mumbai lists down alarming symptoms of heart attack for timely treatment. 
 
In recent times, it has become increasingly common for younger individuals to suffer from heart attacks or angina pains owing to poorer lifestyle choices. These choices include engaging in activities like smoking and consuming more processed food regularly while getting insufficient sleep and leading more sedentary lives. 

The detrimental effects of work-related stress and high environmental pollution further contribute to cardiac problems. Additionally, there is a notable trend of women facing cardiac issues characterised by symptoms similar to those experienced during a heart attack. This trend can be attributed to various factors including fast-paced urbanisation leading to heightened stress levels at work alongside pressures and expectations from family and peers. Habits such as smoking and alcohol consumption coupled with early menopause onset and diabetes exacerbate these cardiac problems in women.

Symptoms of a heart attack 
There are 2 types of pain - classical or typical pain and atypical pain. Classical pain is commonly confused with acidity. Pain may be felt in the upper part of the abdomen radiating to the chest associated with burping. In the case of a heart attack, this pain goes on worsening and is associated with nausea, vomiting, a choking feeling in the throat, jaw pain, chest discomfort, heaviness in the chest and pain that starts in the chest or the back and radiates to the left arm, associated with restlessness and sweating and exhaustion.