Heart disease is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition that affects millions of people worldwide.

While most of us are familiar with some of the common symptoms of heart disease, such as chest pain and shortness of breath, there are also a number of unusual signs that can indicate a heart problem. It’s important to be aware of these signs as they may sometimes be overlooked or mistaken for other conditions. In this article, we will explore some of these unusual signs of heart disease that you need to know.

1. Fatigue

Feeling excessively tired or fatigued, even after getting enough sleep, could be a sign of heart disease.

When the heart is not functioning properly, it can’t pump enough blood to meet the body’s needs, which can result in feelings of fatigue and weakness.

2. Dizziness and lightheadedness

If you experience frequent episodes of dizziness or lightheadedness, it could be an indication of heart disease. When the heart is unable to pump sufficient blood to the brain, it can result in decreased blood flow and sudden bouts of dizziness.

3. Swelling

Unexplained swelling in the legs, ankles, feet, or abdomen may be a sign of heart disease. When the heart is not able to pump blood effectively, it can cause fluid to accumulate in the body, leading to swelling or edema.

4. Changes in skin color or temperature

Heart disease can affect blood circulation, which may cause changes in skin color or temperature. Pale or bluish skin, particularly in the fingers and toes, can indicate poor blood flow and potential heart problems.

5. Erectile dysfunction

While it may seem unrelated, erectile dysfunction can sometimes be a sign of underlying heart disease.

The blood vessels in the penis are similar in size to those in the heart, so if these blood vessels are damaged, it could indicate issues in other parts of the body, including the heart.

6. Digestive problems

Unexplained digestive issues, such as nausea, indigestion, or abdominal pain, can sometimes be linked to heart disease. The heart and digestive system share certain nerves, so problems with the heart can sometimes manifest as digestive symptoms.

7. Jaw or throat pain

In some cases, heart disease can cause pain or discomfort in the jaw or throat. This can be a result of referred pain, where the brain may interpret pain signals from the heart as coming from other areas of the body, such as the jaw or throat.

8. Persistent cough

A chronic or persistent cough that doesn’t seem to go away can be a sign of heart disease. When the heart struggles to pump blood effectively, fluid can accumulate in the lungs, leading to a persistent cough that may worsen at night.

9. Anxiety or increased stress

While anxiety or stress can often be caused by various factors, they can also be indicators of heart disease. The body’s natural response to a struggling heart is to release stress hormones, which can result in increased anxiety or stress levels.

10. Unexplained weight gain or loss

If you notice a sudden and unexplained weight gain or loss, it could be a sign of heart disease.

Fluid retention caused by a failing heart can lead to weight gain, while a poorly functioning heart can also lead to a decrease in appetite and subsequent weight loss.