The lesser-known heart attack warning sign to beware of in the hot weather

Man in the sun sweating

Sweating is a lesser known sign of a heart attack

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Sarra Gray

By Sarra Gray


Published: 08/09/2023

- 14:59

Excessive sweating is a common sign of a heart attack

There are many warning signs that indicate someone is having a heart attack, or could be about to.

Worringly, not everyone is aware of the symptoms they should be looking out for.


The hot weather this week could bring on symptoms such as sweating, shortness of breath or feeling weak.

This could be normal for the heat, or signs of heat exhaustion, however it could be something much more deadly.

Man coughing

Coughing can be a symptom of a heart attack

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Heart attack warning signs (NHS)

Sweating

Chest pain – a feeling of pressure, heaviness, tightness or squeezing across your chest

Pain in other parts of the body – it can feel as if the pain is spreading from your chest to your arms (usually the left arm, but it can affect both arms), jaw, neck, back and tummy

Feeling lightheaded or dizzy

A sense of unease

Shortness of breath

Feeling sick (nausea)

Being sick (vomiting)

An overwhelming feeling of anxiety (similar to a panic attack)

Coughing or wheezing

Many people do not realise that sweating is a warning sign of a heart attack.

While it is common to sweat more in the hot weather, Britons should be aware of what it could indicate. They should track how they feel and not dismiss the potential warning sign.

People are encouraged to call 999 when they experience symptoms or are concerned.

Pain in the chest is the most common indicator of a heart attack.

Man holding onto chest

Chest pain is the most common sign of a heart attack

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While this is often severe pain, it can be much more mild and feel similar to indigestion, NHS explained.

A statement said: "While the most common symptom is chest pain, symptoms can vary from person to person.

"Some people may have other symptoms such as shortness of breath, feeling or being sick and back or jaw pain without any chest pain."

If you are experiencing a heart attack and have called an ambulance, it is important to rest while you wait.

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