Heart disease is the leading cause of death worldwide. Although chest pain is commonly associated with heart disease, there are other unusual signs that point towards an underlying problem in the heart.

By understanding these unusual indications, you can take early action to prevent any potential heart problems before they turn into a serious health issue. Here are ten unusual indications that may indicate the presence of heart disease.

1. Swollen Legs and Ankles

Swelling in your legs and ankles is a sign of fluid buildup in your body. This may happen when your heart doesn’t pump blood as effectively as it should.

The blood then backs up in the veins, causing pressure in the veins around your ankles and legs. This can be an indicator of heart disease and should be checked out by a medical professional immediately.

2. Dizziness and Lightheadedness

Heart disease may cause the body to have difficulty with oxygen levels and blood flow throughout the body. When the body doesn’t receive enough oxygen or blood to function properly, it can lead to dizziness and lightheadedness.

These symptoms may be present when walking or standing suddenly or after eating a meal. If these symptoms persist, it is important to see a doctor for further evaluation.

3. Swelling in the Abdomen

A swollen abdomen may be a sign of liver, kidney, or heart failure. If the heart is not able to pump blood effectively, it can cause fluid buildup in the body, including the abdomen.

Swollen abdomen along with other symptoms, like shortness of breath, should be looked at by a healthcare professional as soon as possible.

4. Fatigue and Weakness

Feeling overly tired or weak without an explanation might indicate a heart problem. If your heart isn’t working properly, it means your muscles, including your heart muscles, aren’t getting enough oxygen.

This may cause it to work harder than usual, leading to a feeling of weakness and fatigue.

5. Unusual Sweating

If you’re experiencing unusual sweating without an explanation, it might be an indication of heart disease. Sweating may happen because your heart is working extra hard to pump blood throughout your body.

It can also be a sign of a blocked coronary artery.

6. Irregular Heartbeat

An irregular heartbeat may be an indication of an underlying heart condition. It may feel like a skipping or racing sensation or pounding in the chest.

A consistently irregular heartbeat requires medical attention as it can lead to heart disease, stroke, or even death.

7. Shortness of Breath During Everyday Activities

Shortness of breath during everyday activities, like climbing stairs or carrying groceries, may be an indication of heart disease.

It could mean the heart is not sufficiently pumping enough oxygen-rich blood to the muscles, like the lungs, causing them to get tired more easily.

8. Sleep Apnea

Heart disease and sleep apnea are connected. Individuals with sleep apnea have pauses in breathing during sleep, causing the heart to work harder to circulate oxygen. Over time, this can lead to high blood pressure and heart disease.

Early diagnosis and treatment of sleep apnea can help reduce the risk of heart disease.

9. Erectile Dysfunction

Erectile dysfunction, or impotence, may be an early indication of heart disease. This may be due to reduced blood flow through the arteries in the penis, similar to what can happen in the arteries of the heart.

Men experiencing erectile dysfunction should talk to their doctor and investigate the possibility of an underlying heart condition.

10. Jaw Pain, Neck Pain, or Upper Back Pain

Although chest pain is the more common sign of a heart attack, jaw pain, neck pain, and upper back pain may also indicate heart problems. The pain may feel like a radiating pressure or tightness, similar to a heart attack symptom.

It’s important to pay attention to this type of pain and seek medical attention as needed.