Heart disease is the leading cause of death worldwide. Despite this, many people overlook the warning signs that their hearts may be in trouble. Here are 10 signs to look out for:.
1. Chest pain or discomfort
Chest pain or discomfort is one of the most common symptoms of heart disease. It may feel like pressure or tightness in the chest, and may be accompanied by sweating, shortness of breath, and nausea.
If you experience chest pain, seek medical attention immediately.
2. Shortness of breath
If you find yourself getting winded easily, or feel like you can’t catch your breath, it may be a sign of a heart problem.
Shortness of breath can be a symptom of many conditions, including heart disease, so it’s important to get a diagnosis from a healthcare professional.
3. Fatigue
Feeling tired all the time, even after getting adequate rest, can be a symptom of heart disease. Fatigue is often a sign that the heart isn’t functioning properly, and may be struggling to pump blood to the rest of the body.
4. Swelling in the legs, ankles, or feet
If you notice swelling in your legs, ankles, or feet, it may be a sign of heart disease. Swelling can occur when the heart is having trouble pumping blood throughout the body, causing fluids to build up in the lower extremities.
5. Irregular heartbeat
An irregular heartbeat, or arrhythmia, can be a sign of a heart problem. It may be described as palpitations, or a racing or fluttering sensation in the chest.
Arrhythmias can be caused by a variety of factors, including heart disease, so it’s important to get checked out if you experience them regularly.
6. Dizziness or lightheadedness
If you feel dizzy or lightheaded, it may be a sign of a heart issue. Dizziness can be caused by a variety of conditions, including low blood pressure and arrhythmia, both of which can be caused by heart disease.
7. Nausea or vomiting
While nausea or vomiting can be caused by a variety of conditions, they can also be a sign of heart problems. If you experience these symptoms in conjunction with other heart-related symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.
8. Extreme sweating
Excessive sweating, especially when accompanied by other heart-related symptoms, can be a sign of a heart attack. If you experience sudden, severe sweating, seek medical attention right away.
9. Jaw, neck, or back pain
Pain in the jaw, neck, or back can be a sign of a heart attack, especially in women. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.
10. Fatigue during physical activity
If you find yourself feeling fatigued or short of breath during physical activity, it may be a sign of a heart problem. This could be caused by narrowed or blocked arteries, which can limit blood flow to the heart during exercise.