Heart disease is among the high-ranking causes of death globally, and its detection is vital for saving lives. Unlike most, several individuals disregard the foreboding signs of a heart defect, deeming them inconsequential. With a profound understanding of these signs, timely medical attention can work wonders. Following are some warning symptoms of heart disease that are often overlooked:

1. Chest Pain

Discomfort or pain in the upper body can signal cardiac disease. “It’s one of the most commonly

reported chest pains,” says a cardiologist at East Point Hospital. Pain can also be felt as pressure, heavyweight, squeezing, tightness, or bruising, mild to severe, and once in a while rather than constantly.

2. Severe Breathing Challenges

Constant and consistent practice of activities such as walking, climbing, or light jogging, all of which exacerbate one’s shortness of breath, could mean trouble for one’s heart. In simple terms, each time you move, your heart progressively attempts to pump blood into your body, gradually getting more blood to circulate in the system, resulting in lung congestion and ultimately leading to shortness of breath.

3. Fatigue

Extreme exhaustion and sleepiness immediately or exceptionally soon after being devoid of rest are the most apparent symptoms. Having the heart working too hard to pump blood makes a prolonged sad face and results in a more tired version of its leading actor, YOU.

4. Swollen Legs, Ankles, and Feet

Edema, or swelling in the extremities, might be a sign of heart failure. Due to insufficient heart pumping, fluids may build up in the legs and feet, resulting in swelling.

5. Palpitations

Arrhythmia, or an irregular heartbeat, can also accompany other heart conditions. If you can feel your heart beating, skipping beats, throttling, or beating in irregular rhythms, you might want to visit your doctor.

6. Feeling Faint or Dizziness

Feeling faint or having dizzy spells while standing may indicate low blood pressure, which in some cases can come with heart disease.

7. Nausea or Appetite Loss

In some instances, people with heart conditions may complain about feeling nauseous, having stunted appetite, or indigestion. Most people dismiss these signs, but they can be the first indications of heart problems.

8. Pain in Other Body Parts

Other than the chest, heart disease might trigger pain in the arms, neck, jaw, and even the back. This type of discomfort is recognized as referred pain and is not uncommon during a heart attack.

9. Cold Sweats

Waking up due to a sudden cold sweat for no reason can indicate a heart attack. If other symptoms accompany it, get it checked immediately.

10. Persistent Cough

Coughing for prolonged periods of time, especially with the production of white or pink sputum, may

indicate heart failure. This is the body’s response to fluids accumulating in the lungs.

Do not overlook any of these symptoms if they arise. Remember that timely treatment or intervention is the key to preventing severe consequences. We at East Point Hospital, Bangalore, have state-of-the-art diagnostic and treatment facilities as well as highly qualified staff for heart complications. Seek help promptly, and don’t wait until it’s too late.