Recognizing The Signs Of A "Silent" Heart Attack Among Seniors

Recognizing the Signs of a “Silent” Heart Attack Among Seniors

As caregivers, most of us would recognize the typical signs of a heart attack in our senior loved one:  severe discomfort in the chest or left side of the body, shortness of breath, dizziness, crushing fatigue, extreme weakness, and/or nausea.  We’ve heard about these symptoms and witnessed them in TV dramas.  We know that we need to get emergency help quickly and that time is of the essence. 

It is important to be aware of the symptoms of a “silent” heart attack, as this type of health condition can be just as deadly over time.  These symptoms may or may not include some of the classic heart attack symptoms, such as chest pain.  More often than not, the senior may experience what they describe as a bad case of heartburn or the flu.  The most obvious signs of a silent heart attack are often long term debilitating fatigue or a general feeling of being unwell that does not improve with time.

If your senior loved one is struggling with unexplained fatigue or feeling generally unwell, it may be time for a visit to their primary care physician.  A thorough exam and a variety of tests may be able to help better diagnose the problem and rule out a silent heart attack.

If your senior loved one has suffered a heart attack and needs care during the day, an adult day care may be a great fit.  Bon Vivant Adult Day Club is the premier adult day care provider located in Fenton, MO.  Our mission at Bon Vivant Adult Day Club is to ensure our members enjoy Good Living Longer.    We are licensed by the State of Missouri and welcome the opportunity to meet with you and your loved one to answer any questions you have about adult day care.  Please feel free to visit our website at www.goodlivinglonger.com or call us at 636-343-1600. 

Article by Beverly McKee, MSW, LCSW