The heart remains one of the most essential organs in the human body, which is responsible for keeping all the body organs supplied with the necessary oxygen and nutrients.

Thus, the heart’s health is critical to the overall well-being of any individual. Heart disease is prevalent, and it’s a condition that can affect people of all ages, genders, and races. It is essential to know that heart disease goes beyond just heart attacks, and some symptoms may not be as obvious as others.

It is therefore essential to know some sneaky symptoms of heart disease to be aware and seek medical attention immediately when you experience them. In this article, we will discuss five sneaky symptoms of heart disease that may surprise you.

1. Fatigue

Feeling tired occasionally is relatively common and not necessarily a sign of any underlying conditions. However, if your fatigue persists, it may be a red flag for heart disease.

Fatigue is a symptom that can present itself weeks or months before a heart attack. It is a sign that the heart is struggling to pump blood to the rest of the body, and hence you may feel tired or easily fatigued than usual.

2. Shortness of breath

If you experience shortness of breath after carrying out activities that you could easily do, such as climbing the stairs, it may be a sign of underlying heart disease.

Shortness of breath happens when the heart is not pumping blood effectively, and the lungs receive less blood than usual. This, in turn, affects breathing, and one may experience short breaths or difficulty breathing. Shortness of breath can also wake you up at night or make it challenging to sleep properly.

3. Swollen legs, feet, or ankles

Swelling in your legs, feet, or ankles may be a sign of heart disease. When the heart is not functioning properly, blood may build up in some parts of the body, leading to swelling.

It indicates that the blood vessels in the legs are not receiving blood like they should, and hence fluid accumulates in the surrounding tissues. Swollen legs, feet, or ankles may appear puffy, and you may experience a feeling of tightness or heaviness in the legs.

4. Indigestion, heartburn, or stomach pain

If you experience indigestion or heartburn that does not get better with time, it may be an indication of heart disease. Sometimes, the symptoms of heart disease can mimic those of digestive issues, leading to a misdiagnosis.

Indigestion can lead to a feeling of fullness and discomfort in the stomach, while heartburn can cause a burning sensation that starts from the chest and moves up to the throat.

5. Dizziness or lightheadedness

Heart disease can cause dizziness or lightheadedness. A decrease in blood flow to the brain can make one feel unsteady, or you may experience a feeling of fainting.

It is a sign that the heart is struggling, and you should seek medical attention immediately if you experience this symptom regularly.

In conclusion, heart disease can present some sneaky symptoms that you may not be aware of or even expect. It is essential to know the symptoms and seek medical attention immediately if you experience any to prevent or manage the condition effectively.