From shortness of breath to swelling, here are the unusual signs of heart problems you need to be aware of
When it comes to heart health, chest pain is often seen as the most obvious sign of trouble. However, there are lesser-known symptoms that could suggest someone has underlying heart problems.
It is crucial to be aware of these less obvious signs of heart problems so that doctors can step in early and prevent serious complications. Medical insurance experts at Usay Compare have highlighted six “unexpected” signs of potential heart issues that people should keep an eye out for.
Six ‘unexpected’ signs of potential heart issues
Shortness of breath
If you find yourself short of breath, especially during everyday activities like walking or climbing stairs, this could be a sign of heart problems. This symptom might indicate heart failure, a condition where the heart can’t pump blood effectively, leading to fluid buildup in the lungs.
Shortness of breath is a significant potential warning sign. Many people associate shortness of breath with respiratory issues, but it can also be a symptom of underlying heart problems that shouldn’t be overlooked, reports Surrey Live.
Fatigue
Feeling fatigued or unusually tired, particularly when it interferes with daily activities or continues despite getting enough rest, may suggest heart issues. Chronic fatigue can be a sign of heart failure, where the heart’s ability to pump blood efficiently is compromised.
Additionally, conditions like arrhythmias or coronary artery disease can cause fatigue due to reduced blood flow to vital organs.
Swelling
Swelling in the legs, ankles, or tummy could be a subtle sign of heart problems, particularly if it appears suddenly or persists. This swelling, known as oedema, might indicate heart failure, where fluid builds up in the body due to the heart’s inability to pump effectively.
Healthcare professionals highlight swelling as a crucial potential warning sign. Oedema can suggest that the heart is struggling to maintain proper circulation, signalling the need for further evaluation by a medical professional.
Feeling dizzy or lightheaded
This is especially when it happens abruptly or with changes in position, could be a symptom of heart rhythm abnormalities. Conditions like atrial fibrillation (AFib) or ventricular tachycardia can cause irregular heartbeats, leading to symptoms of dizziness, fainting, or near-fainting spells.
It is essential to seek medical help if you’re experiencing these symptoms, as they could point to an underlying heart condition that needs treatment.
Nausea, indigestion, or a sudden loss of appetite
These are some of the lesser-known signs of potential heart problems, particularly in women. These symptoms can occur during a heart attack or angina, where reduced blood flow to the heart affects digestive function.
Additionally, heart failure can lead to digestive issues due to congestion in the digestive organs caused by fluid buildup.
Irregular heartbeat
An irregular heartbeat, known as arrhythmia, can present itself as palpitations, fluttering sensations, or a racing heart. While the odd irregular heartbeat may be harmless, persistent or severe palpitations could signal an underlying heart condition.
Conditions like AFib, atrial flutter, or ventricular arrhythmias necessitate medical evaluation and may heighten the risk of stroke or other complications.
A spokesperson for Usay Compare emphasised: “Recognising the lesser-known signs of potential heart problems beyond chest pain is vital for early detection of heart problems and effective medical intervention.
“By being aware of these subtle indicators and seeking prompt evaluation, individuals can take proactive steps to protect their heart health and prevent serious complications. If you’re worried about how poor health could affect your livelihood, getting private medical insurance (PMI) can help.”