Heart disease, also known as cardiovascular disease, is the leading cause of death globally, with around 18 million people dying every year due to this illness.

Even though some of the risk factors commonly associated with heart disease are high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels, and obesity, there are other unexpected signs that many people might overlook but are equally significant.

1. Fatigue

Many people experience fatigue or exhaustion after a long day or physical activity, but if it’s happening frequently and without any apparent cause, it might be a warning sign of heart disease.

When your heart is not functioning properly, your body is not properly oxygenated making you feel tired and weak.

2. Snoring

Snoring is not only irritating to your partner, but it is also a potential sign that you may have sleep apnea. This occurs when your airway is partially or completely obstructed when you sleep.

This puts added pressure on your heart, and can contribute significantly to the development of heart disease.

3. Swelling

Swelling in the feet, ankles, or legs might not always be an indication of a heart problem, but in some cases, it could be due to fluid buildup caused by heart failure.

When the heart is not pumping efficiently, it can cause an accumulation of blood in the veins and lead to swelling in different parts of the body.

4. Jaw pain

Jaw pain can be caused by numerous reasons, such as a cavity, toothache, or gum disease. But if you’re experiencing this pain while exercising or performing physical activity, it might be an indicator of an underlying heart issue.

The pain is known to be experienced in the left side of the jaw, but can also occur in the right side.

5. Cold Sweats

If you are experiencing cold sweats, despite not having over-exerted yourself, this could be a sign of a blocked artery that is not rendering enough blood to the heart. Cold sweats can be a concerning red flag that signals a heart attack on its way.

6. Dizziness

Dizziness is a common symptom associated with numerous illnesses, but if you are experiencing dizziness with an irregular heartbeat, it could be because your heart is not pumping blood as it should.

Dizziness also occurs in those patients whose hearts are beating too fast or, alternatively, too slowly. This indicates that the heart’s rhythm is out of sync and is hence not able to maintain a regular blood flow.

Conclusion

The reality is that when it comes to heart disease, early detection is key. It is essential to recognize the various signs of heart disease early on, as it allows for proper prevention measures to be taken before it is too late.

If you notice any of the unexpected symptoms mentioned above, seek medical attention immediately. Follow a healthy and active lifestyle, which includes a balanced diet, exercise, and sufficient rest.