Did you know that heart attacks are the leading cause of death in the United States? The fast-paced lifestyles and unhealthy eating habits of many Americans contribute to this rising health issue. Recognizing the warning signs of a heart attack up to a month in advance can be life-saving. In addition to maintaining a healthy lifestyle and reducing stress, being aware of these early symptoms can help you protect yourself or your loved ones from a potentially fatal heart attack.

Here are seven key signs your body may give you up to a month before a heart attack. It’s crucial to take these symptoms seriously as they could be warning signals.

1. Swollen Feet

One common but overlooked sign of congestive heart failure is swelling in your feet, ankles, or legs. This happens when your heart’s lower chambers lose their ability to effectively pump blood, leading to a backup of fluid in the body. If you notice unexplained swelling in these areas, it’s worth checking with a doctor to rule out heart issues.

2. Fatigue

When the arteries supplying your heart become narrow, your heart struggles to get enough blood to meet its needs. This makes it work much harder than usual, which can lead to feeling unusually tired or drowsy. If you notice that even simple tasks are exhausting, don’t brush it off—your body might be signaling that your heart is struggling.

3. Shortness of Breath

If your heart isn’t receiving enough blood, it can’t send enough oxygen to your lungs either. Because your heart and lungs are closely connected, shortness of breath can be an early warning sign of a heart attack. If you find yourself becoming easily winded or struggling to catch your breath without any obvious cause, seek medical attention right away.

4. Weakness

When blood flow to your muscles is restricted due to narrowed arteries, your body can feel weak and unstable. This lack of circulation can leave you feeling unusually weak or cause unexpected falls. If you start to feel this way regularly, it’s important to see a healthcare professional to rule out any cardiovascular problems.

5. Dizziness and Cold Sweats

Poor blood circulation can also reduce the amount of oxygen reaching your brain, which is why dizziness and cold sweats are common warning signs. If you start feeling lightheaded or break into a cold sweat without an apparent reason, this could be a serious indication that your heart is not functioning properly and a heart attack may be imminent.

6. Chest Pressure

One of the most common and well-known signs of an impending heart attack is chest discomfort or pressure. This sensation may start mildly and gradually increase in intensity as the heart attack approaches. If you feel tightness, squeezing, or pressure in your chest that doesn’t go away, this is a major red flag that should not be ignored.

7. Symptoms Resembling a Cold or Flu

Many people who experience heart attacks report having flu-like symptoms in the weeks leading up to the event. This can include chills, body aches, or a general sense of not feeling well. While these symptoms can easily be mistaken for a cold or the flu, it’s important to pay attention to any sudden changes in how you’re feeling, especially if they are combined with any of the other warning signs mentioned.

What You Should Do

If you or someone you know starts showing any of these symptoms, it’s critical to seek medical attention immediately. Early detection is key to preventing a heart attack. Don’t wait for the symptoms to intensify or go away on their own—getting professional help as soon as possible could save your life.