Heart diseases are some of the leading causes of death worldwide, and they often manifest without any warning signs or symptoms. However, some people may experience subtle indicators that they may not recognize as being related to their heart health.

Understanding these subtle signs can help identify underlying heart issues earlier and help in preventing future complications. Here are ten subtle indicators of cardiac issues.

Shortness of Breath

Shortness of breath, also known as dyspnea, is defined as a sensation of not being able to take a deep breath. Although it is often a symptom of other ailments, it is also a common indicator of heart disease, especially in women.

Shortness of breath can be caused by heart failure, which makes it harder for the heart to pump blood around the body. It can also be caused by a blockage in an artery or other structural issues in the heart. If shortness of breath is a persistent symptom, it is essential to speak with your doctor.

Clammy Skin

Clammy skin is defined as moist, cool, and damp skin. This symptom is often an indication that the body is under stress, and the heart could be working overtime to pump blood and maintain the body’s functioning.

In some cases, clammy skin can be a sign of heart failure and the body’s inability to regulate its temperature.

Chest Pain

Chest pain is one of the most well-known indicators of a heart problem. However, not all chest pains are immediate reasons for concern.

For example, chest discomfort can result from heartburn or acid reflux, but it can also signify more serious ailments, including a heart attack. It is vital to speak with a doctor if chest pains are persistent, debilitating, or are accompanied by other symptoms such as shortness of breath or nausea.

Fatigue and Weakness

According to the American Heart Association, fatigue and weakness are significant contributors to heart disease. If you find yourself feeling tired and sluggish, even after getting adequate rest, this could be a sign of heart disease.

It may be due to the heart’s inability to pump enough blood to the body, causing feelings of weakness and exhaustion.

Fainting or Dizziness

Fainting or feeling dizzy is an indicator that the blood flow to the brain is being restricted. This can happen due to a blockage in the arteries or disruption to the heart’s rhythm.

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Fainting could also be due to low blood pressure, which can be the result of heart damage. It is essential to speak with a doctor if fainting occurs, or feeling dizzy becomes a recurring symptom.

Swollen Legs and Feet

Swollen legs and feet occur when fluid accumulates in the body’s tissues, which can be due to an underlying heart problem. The heart may not be pumping blood properly, leading to a buildup of fluid in the legs and feet.

Swelling can also be an indicator of kidney problems, but it is still essential to speak with a doctor to identify the root cause promptly.

Irregular Heartbeat

Heart palpitations or irregular heartbeat is a sign that the heart is not functioning correctly. These symptoms often result from a problem with the electrical signals that control the heart rate and rhythm.

An irregular heartbeat can be a sign of heart disease or other heart-related conditions. It is crucial to seek medical attention if irregular heartbeats occur frequently, are accompanied by other symptoms, or are persistent.

High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure is a significant indicator of heart disease. It can cause the heart muscle to become thick and stiff, making it difficult for it to pump blood efficiently.

High blood pressure can lead to the rupture of the artery wall, causing a heart attack or stroke. Monitoring blood pressure levels regularly can help identify hypertension early and lower the risk of complications later on.

Nausea and Indigestion

Although nausea and indigestion are commonly associated with digestive issues, they can also signify heart troubles. For example, women are more likely to experience nausea during a heart attack than men.

Though stomach-related issues and nausea may not always point to heart disease, it is necessary to pay attention to symptoms that occur along with these symptoms, such as chest pain, dizziness, or fatigue.

Sweating

Excessive sweating can indicate a heart problem when accompanied by other symptoms. Breaking out in a cold sweat that is not due to exercise or a warm room could be a warning sign of a heart attack.

The body produces sweat as a way to cool itself down when the heart is struggling and could signify a reduction of blood flow to the skin surface.