Heart problems do not always begin with sudden, severe chest pain. Sometimes the body may show warning signs that are easy to dismiss. Knowing these symptoms can help you recognize when medical attention may be necessary.
1. Chest pain or pressure
Pain, pressure, squeezing or discomfort in the chest can be a warning sign of reduced blood flow to the heart. It may feel like heaviness or tightness rather than sharp pain. New, severe or persistent chest discomfort should never be ignored.
2. Unusual shortness of breath
Feeling unusually breathless, especially during normal activities or while resting, can sometimes be linked to a heart problem. It may occur with or without chest discomfort.
3. Unexplained extreme tiredness
Feeling unusually weak or exhausted without an obvious reason can sometimes occur when the heart is struggling to pump enough blood. This symptom can have many other causes, so it should be considered alongside other symptoms.
4. Swelling in the legs or ankles
Swelling in the feet, ankles or lower legs can occur when the body retains fluid. Heart conditions are one possible cause, although kidney, liver, vein and medication-related problems can also cause swelling.
5. Dizziness, fainting or a racing heartbeat
Feeling faint, actually fainting, or experiencing a new irregular or unusually rapid heartbeat can sometimes indicate a heart rhythm problem or another cardiovascular issue. These symptoms deserve medical evaluation, particularly if they are sudden or recurrent.