Are you worried about the heart health of young people around you? Are you wondering how to identify cardiovascular disease in them? Cardiovascular disease involves various health conditions affecting the heart and blood vessels, including coronary artery disease, high blood pressure, and heart failure. It can happen to anyone, regardless of age, but identifying it in young people can be challenging. That’s why we have compiled this guide to help you recognise signs that could indicate cardiovascular disease in young people.

1. Family History

Family history is one of the most crucial factors that can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease in young people.

If there is a history of premature heart disease, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol in the family, it can increase the likelihood of the disease occurring to young people. Therefore, it’s essential to inquire about their family history regularly to identify any risk factors and prevent the disease early enough.

2. High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure or hypertension is another common sign of cardiovascular disease. It can cause damage to the blood vessels and heart, leading to various health problems, including stroke and heart attack.

Unfortunately, high blood pressure can be challenging to identify, especially in young people. However, symptoms such as headache, dizziness, and nosebleeds could be signs of hypertension. It’s essential to monitor blood pressure regularly to detect any change in young people and seek medical attention early enough.

3. High Cholesterol Levels

High cholesterol levels could also indicate cardiovascular disease in young people. Cholesterol is a type of fat produced by the liver essential for the body’s functioning.

However, too much cholesterol can accumulate in the blood vessels, causing blockage and limiting blood flow. You can check for high cholesterol levels through a blood test, and early detection can help prevent future complications.

4. Obesity

Obesity is a common indication of cardiovascular disease in young people. Being overweight or obese can put pressure on the heart, leading to various health problems such as high blood pressure and diabetes.

You can check for obesity through the Body Mass Index (BMI) calculation. A BMI of over 30 is considered obese, and it’s critical to keep track of young people’s BMI and engage them in physical activities to control their weight.

5. Chest Pain

Chest pain is a common sign of cardiovascular disease and should never be ignored, even in young people.

While chest pain could be due to various health issues, including panic attacks, it’s crucial to seek medical attention if the chest pain is severe, persistent, and accompanied by other symptoms, such as shortness of breath, dizziness, and nausea. These symptoms could indicate a heart attack and require immediate medical attention.

6. Shortness of Breath

Shortness of breath or dyspnea could also indicate cardiovascular disease in young people. It’s a feeling of not getting enough air and could be accompanied by chest pain, wheezing, and cough.

It’s essential to seek medical attention if shortness of breath is persistent and accompanied by other symptoms.

7. Fatigue

Excessive fatigue or tiredness could also be a sign of cardiovascular disease in young people.

Fatigue is often a symptom of many different health problems, but when it’s persistent and even after enough rest, it could indicate underlying heart issues. If the young person feels tired all the time, it’s essential to schedule an appointment with a doctor for a checkup.

8. Palpitations

Palpitations are rapid or irregular heartbeats and can be accompanied by a feeling of skipped heartbeats.

Palpitations could indicate cardiovascular disease, so it’s essential to seek medical attention if the young person experiences them regularly. Palpitations could be caused by various health issues, including stress, medications, and alcohol.

9. Swelling

Swelling in the legs, ankles, and feet could also indicate cardiovascular disease. Swelling occurs when the heart can’t pump blood effectively, causing fluid to build up in the tissues.

If you notice swelling that doesn’t resolve after resting the legs, it’s essential to seek medical attention to prevent further complications.

10. Fainting Spells

Fainting spells are another sign of cardiovascular disease in young people.

While fainting could be due to various reasons, including dehydration and low blood sugar, it could also indicate underlying heart issues, especially if it’s a persistent issue. If the young person faints regularly and gets dizzy, it’s essential to seek medical attention to prevent future risks.