Heart-related problems usually come with no signs. It is one of the reasons why most heart diseases are referred to as “silent killers.” Another reason why heart issues are often overlooked is because the symptoms can be mistaken for other benign conditions, for instance, acidity and muscle pain. At times, they can also mimic symptoms associated with anxiety and panic attacks, which can lead to delayed diagnosis and treatment. Having said that, here's a list of common heart symptoms that should be addressed immediately.
Chest Pain And Discomfort
According to the American Heart Association (AHA), chest pain, also known as angina, is a common indicator of underlying heart problems. It occurs when the heart muscle doesn't get enough oxygen-rich blood, leading to the buildup of pressure in the chest.
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Dizziness
Dizziness or lightheadedness can occur due to several reasons. It can be a sign of an arrhythmia, commonly called an irregular heartbeat. The condition occurs when the electrical signals that signal the heart to beat don't fire properly. It may also mean that the heart is not pumping enough blood into the body, which can lead to dizziness.
Also Read: Dizziness: What Causes It And Foods To Add
Fainting
The AHA says that fainting or syncope most often occurs when blood pressure levels are too low. This condition is also known as hypotension, wherein the heart, brain, and other parts of the body do not receive enough blood. Ideally, BP levels should mostly be between 90/60 mmHg and 120/80 mmHg.
Heart Palpitations
A racing heart is often a symptom of anxiety and stress. It can also occur due to exercise, medication, or, in rare cases, a medical condition, such as an irregular heartbeat or arrhythmia.
Shortness Of Breath
From a lung problem to an allergic reaction, shortness of breath can have several causes. A heart problem can also be one of the reasons. According to the British Heart Foundation (BHF), when your heart doesn't pump enough oxygen-containing blood around the body, it can make it difficult to breathe.
Nausea And Vomiting
Heart problems can also be associated with digestive issues, including indigestion, nausea, and vomiting. According to the CDC, these symptoms can also indicate a heart attack and are more likely to occur in women.
Fatigue
Fatigue can be a sign of several health problems, ranging from nutritional deficiencies to stress to chronic health conditions—heart failure being one of them. It occurs when the heart isn't able to pump sufficient blood throughout the body. This then reduces the delivery of oxygen-rich blood to the body's tissues and organs, impairing muscle function and, in turn, resulting in feelings of tiredness and exhaustion.
Also Read: Do You Feel Tired All The Time: Expert Lists Causes Of Extreme Fatigue
Sleep Problems
According to the BHF, people with heart and circulatory diseases can experience sleep issues, which are common in 44% of heart patients.
Sleep disorders can also increase your risk of heart disease. Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA) is a medical condition characterised by loud snoring, recurrent breathing interruptions during sleep, abrupt awakenings, and excessive daytime sleepiness. It is commonly associated with higher rates of high blood pressure, stroke, and coronary artery disease, according to the AHA.
Conclusion
Heart diseases can be sneaky. By the time the symptoms actually start showing, the damage is usually done. However, by keeping track of certain signs and ailments, you can monitor the status of your heart health. Symptoms like shortness of breath, chest pain, sleep problems, and heart palpitations may seem harmless and associated with benign conditions, but there is nothing wrong with seeking professional advice. Do not slack off on getting your regular heart screenings.