Heart disease is a silent killer that often creeps up without ringing the alarm bells. In many cases, they know they have heart disease only after a heart attack. It is a leading cause of death for both men and women in the US. In 2022, one out of five deaths, with the number over 700,000 deaths, are from heart disease.
Since heart disease symptoms are not always what you might expect, you must learn the subtle signs of heart disease. If you are concerned about heart health, this article discusses the overlooked symptoms of heart disease.
Recognizing the Usual Suspects
When you think of heart disease symptoms, chest pain and shortness of breath probably come to mind. These well-known culprits cause many people to rush to the emergency room. But did you know that not everyone experiences these classic signs?
Some people have milder heart disease symptoms or none at all, making heart disease even trickier to spot. Knowing the full range of symptoms is crucial, so you know when to seek help.
When your heart struggles, it can send pain signals to other parts of your body. Paying attention to unusual pain or discomfort, especially if it spreads, is key. This is vital information for friends, family, and caregivers.
Uncovering the 7 Overlooked Symptoms of Heart Disease
Here are some heart disease symptoms that are very subtle or easily mistaken for something else. Pay attention to the following:
- Fatigue: Feeling unusually tired can be more than just stress or a busy lifestyle. If you find yourself exhausted after simple tasks, it might be your heart struggling to keep up.
- Indigestion: Experiencing an upset stomach or nausea could be related to heart issues, especially if it is accompanied by other symptoms like sweating or dizziness.
- Jaw Pain: Jaw discomfort is often overlooked as a sign of heart trouble. It is more common in women, and recognizing it early can be life-saving.
- Swollen Ankles: When your heart is not pumping effectively, fluid can build up, causing swelling in your legs and feet.
- Sleep Apnea: This sleep disorder is linked to heart disease. If you are waking up gasping for air, it is worth discussing with your doctor.
- Persistent Cough: A lingering cough, especially one that produces white or pink mucus, can indicate heart problems.
- Irregular Heartbeat: Feeling your heart race or skipping a beat is not always harmless. It could be a sign of atrial fibrillation, a serious condition that requires medical attention.
Men Vs. Women: Different Heart Signals
Another thing to know is heart disease may present differently in men and women. Men are more likely to experience classic chest pain symptoms, while women might notice other uncommon symptoms. Women have reported feeling nausea, jaw pain, or shortness of breath linked to heart disease.
Women often dismiss their symptoms as something less serious, but doing so can delay critical care. While men may feel a sudden, intense pain, women might think they just have the flu. Knowing these differences empowers you to act quickly and seek help when needed.
Check-Ups and Personal Risk Factors
Regular health check-ups are vital for spotting heart disease symptoms early. They give doctors the chance to catch any warning signs before they become serious. Understanding your personal risk factors, like family history and lifestyle, also plays a crucial role in prevention.
Your doctor can help you assess your risk and work with you on a plan to keep your heart healthy. Things like high blood pressure or cholesterol are red flags that need monitoring. By being proactive about your heart health, you are taking the first step toward a longer, healthier life.
Keeping Your Heart Happy and Healthy
Maintaining heart health is about living a healthy and active lifestyle. Here are some simple but effective tips for keeping your heart in good shape:
- Diet: Eating a heart-healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help. Work on changing a high-fat and high-sodium diet.
- Exercise: Regular physical activity strengthens your heart. John Hopkins Medicine recommends heart-pumping aerobic exercise for at least 30 minutes daily, five days a week.
- Stress Management: Finding ways to manage stress, like yoga or meditation, can lower your risk of heart disease.
These lifestyle changes are a good way to boost heart health. You can start with small changes and work your way up. For individualized recommendations, consult a cardiologist who is an expert in heart health. Search for “cardiology near me” to find support in your area.
Remember, your heart deserves as much care and attention as any other part of your body. If you suspect heart disease symptoms, do not delay professional care. Search for “heart disease treatment in Boca Raton, FL,” to see local resources.
Heart Disease Treatment in Boca Raton, FL
If you are searching for the best heart disease treatment near you, schedule a consultation with one of our board-certified interventional cardiologists at Advanced Heart and Vascular Institute. Our compassionate doctors are dedicated to your heart health, providing the most comprehensive care.
We find that lifestyle changes can be very effective in reversing the treatable risk factors for heart disease. We make sure you have help with making these changes in your life. Find out how we can work together to help protect your heart.
Advanced Heart and Vascular Institute offers concierge cardiology to patients needing more intensive care and monitoring. For any questions or to schedule a consultation, call our office today at (561) 235-5621 or use our convenient appointment request form.
We look forward to being your trusted partner in heart health.
