Heart disease is one of the leading causes of death worldwide.
While some of the signs and symptoms of heart disease, such as chest pain, shortness of breath, and fatigue, are well-known, there are some uncommon signs that can also indicate underlying heart problems. Here are five uncommon signs of heart disease that you should watch out for.
1. Jaw Pain
Jaw pain is not usually associated with heart problems, but it can be a red flag for a heart attack, especially in women.
Women are more likely to experience atypical symptoms of a heart attack, such as jaw pain, rather than the classic symptoms of chest pain and shortness of breath. If you experience unexplained pain in your jaw, especially accompanied by other symptoms such as sweating or nausea, seek medical attention immediately.
2. Swollen Legs or Ankles
Swelling in the legs or ankles can be a sign of heart disease, especially if it is persistent and not linked to an injury or infection.
The heart is responsible for pumping blood throughout the body, but if it is not functioning properly, blood can accumulate in the legs and cause swelling. Other signs of heart problems that may be present with leg or ankle swelling include shortness of breath, fatigue, or chest pain.
3. Snoring
Snoring can be a symptom of sleep apnea, a condition that is associated with an increased risk of heart disease. Sleep apnea occurs when the airway becomes partially or completely blocked during sleep, causing interrupted breathing.
The resulting oxygen deprivation can put extra strain on the heart and increase the risk of heart attack, stroke, and other cardiovascular problems. If you snore heavily or wake up frequently during the night, talk to your doctor about getting evaluated for sleep apnea.
4. Nausea or Vomiting
While nausea and vomiting are commonly associated with gastrointestinal problems, they can also be a sign of heart disease, especially in women.
Research has shown that women are more likely to experience gastrointestinal symptoms during a heart attack, such as nausea, vomiting, or indigestion, than men. If you experience these symptoms, especially with other signs such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or fatigue, seek medical attention immediately.
5. Dizziness or Fainting
Dizziness or fainting can be a sign of many different health problems, including heart disease.
If you experience unexplained dizziness or fainting, especially if it is accompanied by other symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or an irregular heartbeat, seek medical attention immediately. Fainting can indicate a sudden drop in blood pressure, which can be caused by a heart problem.