If you always feel sleepy and sluggish, you might want to take it as a warning sign as a doctor has cautioned it could a heart problem
What is ME or Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?
If you’re constantly feeling worn out and attributing it to a hectic lifestyle, it might be time to reconsider. Cardiologist Dr James Wetherby has raised the alarm about a hidden threat behind the common complaint of being ‘tired all the time’.
New studies suggest that this seemingly innocuous symptom could actually be an early sign of heart failure. This condition affects over 900,000 people in the UK alone and is often diagnosed too late.
Dismissing your tiredness could be putting your health in serious jeopardy. Here’s what you need to know to recognise the warning signs early to avoid a late diagnosis.
Heart failure is a silent danger Dr James Wetherby says, reports Surrey Live. It happens when the heart struggles to pump blood effectively, leading to poor oxygenation and circulation in the body.
The doctor explained: “One of the earliest and most overlooked symptoms of heart failure is persistent fatigue. When your heart is under strain, it struggles to deliver oxygen-rich blood to the muscles and tissues, leaving you feeling utterly drained.”
While symptoms like chest pain or shortness of breath are more obvious indicators of heart issues, fatigue often goes unnoticed. Research from the British Heart Foundation reveals that up to 40% of people with heart failure were initially diagnosed late, partly because they mistook their symptoms for everyday tiredness.
Spotting the warning signs
Fatigue is just one part of the picture. Here are other subtle symptoms that could indicate heart failure:
- Shortness of breath – especially during routine activities or when lying down.
- Swelling in the legs, ankles or feet – caused by fluid retention due to the heart’s reduced pumping ability.
- Unexplained weight gain – another result of fluid buildup.
- Difficulty concentrating or confusion – a sign that your brain isn’t receiving enough oxygen.
If you’re experiencing a combination of these symptoms along with persistent fatigue, it’s time to book an appointment with your GP. The NHS adds: “The symptoms of heart failure can vary from person to person. They may start suddenly or develop gradually over weeks or months.”
Other symptoms of heart failure can include:
- a persistent cough, which may be worse at night
- wheezing
- a bloated tummy
- loss of appetite
- weight gain or weight loss
- confusion
- a fast heart rate
- a pounding, fluttering or irregular heartbeat (palpitations)
Some people with heart failure may also experience feelings of depression and anxiety. If you are feeling tired most of the time and it if impacting your day-to-day life, book an appointment with your GP to check for an underlying medical condition.
What can you do?
Being proactive can significantly lower your risk of developing or worsening heart failure.
- Get active: Incorporate at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise into your day. Even activities like brisk walking can improve cardiovascular health.
- Eat heart-healthy foods: Reduce your intake of saturated fats and processed sugars. Focus on a Mediterranean-style diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.
- Prioritise sleep: Poor sleep has been linked to higher rates of heart disease. Aim for 7–9 hours of quality rest each night.
- Know your numbers: Regularly monitor your blood pressure, cholesterol, and weight to catch potential issues early.
- Act on symptoms: Don’t ignore unusual tiredness, swelling, or breathlessness. Seek medical advice promptly.
Why is this important now?
Health and wellness experts from Ski Famille emphasise the importance of raising awareness, especially as more people are working desk jobs and leading less active lifestyles. “People often assume fatigue is normal because it’s so common,” a spokesperson said. “But understanding the root cause is key to addressing it-and potentially preventing life-threatening complications like heart failure.”
This advice is particularly pertinent during the colder months when people are likely to be less active and eat heavier comfort foods. These factors can worsen underlying heart conditions without immediate symptoms, making it crucial to stay alert. For more information, visit the NHS website.
When to get medical advice
See your GP if you experience persistent or gradually worsening symptoms of heart failure. The symptoms can be caused by other, less serious conditions, so it’s a good idea to get them checked out.
Call 999 for an ambulance or go to your nearest accident and emergency (A&E) department as soon as possible if you have sudden or very severe symptoms. This is a medical emergency that may require immediate treatment in hospital.
