Heart disease is a term used to describe a range of conditions that affect the heart, including coronary artery disease, heart failure, and arrhythmias.

It’s important to be aware of the warning signs of heart disease so that you can take action to prevent or manage the condition before it becomes more serious.

Chest Pain or Discomfort

Chest pain or discomfort is one of the most common warning signs of heart disease. It’s often described as a feeling of pressure, tightness, or squeezing in the chest, but it can also be a sharp pain.

The pain or discomfort may also spread to the arms, neck, jaw, or back.

Shortness of Breath

Shortness of breath is another common warning sign of heart disease. It can happen when you’re at rest or during physical activity. You may feel like you can’t catch your breath, or you may have difficulty breathing deeply.

Fatigue

Feeling tired or fatigued is another warning sign of heart disease. It may be a general feeling of tiredness or weakness, or it may be more specific, such as feeling tired after physical activity or having trouble sleeping at night.

Dizziness or Lightheadedness

Dizziness or lightheadedness can be a sign of heart disease, especially if it happens suddenly or if it’s accompanied by other symptoms. You may feel like you’re going to faint or like the room is spinning.

Nausea or Vomiting

Nausea or vomiting can be a warning sign of heart disease, especially in women. It may be accompanied by other symptoms, such as shortness of breath or chest pain.

Heart Palpitations

Heart palpitations are another warning sign of heart disease. They can be described as a feeling of a skipped heartbeat or an extra heartbeat. You may feel like your heart is racing, fluttering, or pounding in your chest.

Swelling in the Legs, Ankles, or Feet

Swelling in the legs, ankles, or feet can be a sign of heart disease, especially if it’s accompanied by other symptoms such as shortness of breath or chest pain.

The swelling may be caused by a buildup of fluid in the body, which can be a sign of heart failure.

Sudden Weight Gain

Sudden weight gain can be a sign of heart disease, especially if it’s accompanied by other symptoms such as shortness of breath or chest pain. The weight gain may be caused by a buildup of fluid in the body, which can be a sign of heart failure.

Cold Sweats

Cold sweats can be a warning sign of heart disease, especially if they happen suddenly or if they’re accompanied by other symptoms such as chest pain or shortness of breath. You may feel clammy or have a cold, sticky feeling on your skin.

Anxiety or Panic Attacks

Anxiety or panic attacks can be a sign of heart disease, especially if they happen suddenly or if they’re accompanied by other symptoms such as chest pain or shortness of breath.

You may feel like you’re having a heart attack or like you’re going to die.

If you experience any of these warning signs of heart disease, it’s important to talk to your doctor right away. They can help you determine the cause of your symptoms and recommend the best course of treatment.