Cardiovascular diseases are among the leading causes of death worldwide. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), an estimated 17.9 million people die each year from cardiovascular diseases, accounting for 31% of all global deaths.

Cardiovascular issues can be extremely harmful if they are not identified in time, it’s imperative to know the symptoms and seek medical attention as soon as possible. Here are 6 warning signs that everyone should be aware of.

1. Chest Pain or Discomfort

Chest pain or discomfort is the most common symptom of a heart attack. The pain or discomfort may feel like a tight, heavy, crushing, or burning sensation. It may also be accompanied by shortness of breath, nausea, lightheadedness, or sweating.

Women, elderly people, and people with diabetes may experience different symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, or pain in their arms, neck, jaw, stomach, or back.

2. Irregular Heartbeat

An irregular heartbeat, also known as arrhythmia, can cause the heart to beat too fast, too slow, or irregularly. This can disrupt the flow of blood to the body and increase the risk of blood clots, stroke, or heart failure.

Symptoms may include palpitations, skipped beats, dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting.

3. Shortness of Breath

Shortness of breath can be a sign of several cardiovascular issues such as heart attack, heart failure, or pulmonary embolism. It typically occurs during physical activity or rest and can be accompanied by chest pain, cough, wheezing, or nausea.

Shortness of breath is often a warning sign that your heart or lungs are not functioning properly.

4. Fatigue or Weakness

Feeling tired or weak can be a sign of several cardiovascular issues such as heart attack, heart failure, or arrhythmia. Fatigue or weakness may be accompanied by shortness of breath, dizziness, nausea, or chest discomfort.

If you feel unusually tired or weak for no apparent reason, it’s important to seek medical attention.

5. Swelling

Swelling in the legs, ankles, feet, or abdomen can be a sign of several cardiovascular issues such as heart failure, kidney disease, or liver disease. Swelling occurs when fluid accumulates in the body due to poor circulation or a buildup of pressure.

Swelling may be accompanied by fatigue, shortness of breath, or weight gain.

6. High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a common cardiovascular issue that affects millions of people worldwide.

It occurs when the force of blood against the walls of the arteries is too high, which can damage the arteries and increase the risk of heart attack, stroke, or kidney disease. High blood pressure often has no symptoms, which is why it’s important to have it checked regularly by a healthcare professional.

If you experience any of these warning signs, it’s important to seek medical attention as soon as possible.

It’s also important to take preventive measures such as maintaining a healthy diet, engaging in regular physical activity, avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption, and managing stress.